Document Document Title
US09228257B2 Quality multi-spectral zinc sulfide
Low scatter water clear zinc sulfide with reduced metal contamination is prepared by coating a chuck which holds zinc sulfide and machining the zinc sulfide with uncoated particles. An inert foil is cleaned with an acid cleaning method and also cleaning the zinc sulfide. The zinc sulfide is wrapped in the inert foil and then treated by a HIP process to provide a low scatter water-clear zinc sulfide. The low scatter water-clear zinc sulfide may be used in articles such as windows and domes.
US09228255B2 FePt-C-based sputtering target and process for producing the same
An FePt—C-based sputtering target contains Fe, Pt, and C and has a structure in which an FePt-based alloy phase and a C phase containing unavoidable impurities are mutually dispersed, the FePt-based alloy phase containing Pt in an amount of 40 at % or more and 60 at % or less with the balance being Fe and unavoidable impurities. The content of C is 21 at % or more and 70 at % or less based on the total amount of the target.
US09228252B2 Hard alloy and cutting tool
A hard alloy and a cutting tool. The hard alloy includes a hard phase and a binder phase. The hard phase includes: a main phase containing 50-70 mass % of WC, 15-30 mass % of TiCN, and 0-10 mass % of at least one kind of carbide, nitride or carbonitride of one or more non-W, non-Ti periodic table Group 4, 5 or 6 metal; a WC phase; and a composite hard phase. The binder phase includes 6 to 12 mass % of at least one of Co and Ni. The hard alloy includes a surface portion at a surface thereof, the surface portion having a WC content higher than that of an internal portion thereof. An average size of grains in the WC phase in the surface portion is larger than an average size of grains in the WC phase in the internal portion.
US09228243B2 System and method for conditioning a hardwood pulp liquid hydrolysate
A system and method for hardwood pulp liquid hydrolysate conditioning is provided. The system includes a first evaporator, a hydrolysis unit, at least one lignin separation device, a neutralization device, a precipitate removal device, a solvent extraction unit, a lignin removal and recovery unit, an acid and furfural separation and conditioning unit, and an electrodialysis device, which process a quantity of hardwood mix to produce a desalinated solution containing sugar.
US09228241B2 Genetic loci associated with mechanical stalk strength in maize
The invention relates to methods and compositions for identifying and for selecting maize plants with mechanical stalk strength characteristics. The methods use molecular markers to identify and select plants with increased mechanical stalk strength or to identify and counter-select plants with decreased mechanical stalk strength. Maize plants generated by the methods of the invention are also a feature of the invention.
US09228236B2 Allelic disorders caused by mutations in TRPV4
The present invention provides methods, kits, and compositions for detecting mutations in transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily V, member 4 (TRPV4). In particular, mutations are detected in TRPV4 to detect diseases such as scapuloperoneal spinal muscular atrophy (SPSMA) and hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy type IIC (HMSN IIC) or Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2C (CMT2C).
US09228235B2 Method and kit for the classification and prognosis of chronic wounds
A method and kit are provided for identifying non-healing or healing chronic mammalian wound tissue or for determining the prognosis of chronic mammalian wound tissue based upon the identification of at least one key set of molecular markers or genes whose expression pattern is indicative of a given wound type and so representative of a given prognosis.
US09228231B2 Kit for detecting a mutation and/or polymorphism of a specific region in a target nucleotide sequence
One embodiment of the disclosure provides a kit for detecting a mutation and/or polymorphism of a specific region in a target nucleotide sequence, including: at least one first primer consisting of a first segment and a second segment, wherein the first segment is a complementary strand of a first sequence and the second segment is a second sequence, and the 3′ end of the first segment connects to the 5′ end of the second segment; a second primer being a third sequence; at least one third primer consisting of a third segment and a fourth segment, wherein the third segment is a fourth sequence and the fourth segment is a complementary strand of a fifth sequence, and the 3′ end of the third segment connects to the 5′ end of the fourth segment; and a fourth primer being a complementary strand of a sixth sequence, wherein the specific region includes rs1799853, rs1057910, rs2108622, rs9923231 and rs9934438.
US09228229B2 Digital analyte analysis
The invention generally relates to droplet based digital PCR and methods for analyzing a target nucleic acid using the same. In certain embodiments, methods of the invention involve forming sample droplets containing, on average, a single target nucleic acid, amplifying the target in the droplets, excluding droplets containing amplicon from the target and amplicon from a variant of the target, and analyzing target amplicons.
US09228227B2 Synthesis of 2′, 3′-dideoxynucleosides for automated DNA synthesis and pyrophosphorolysis activated polymerization
Methods for preparation of 2′,3′-dideoxynucleotides support structures, such as 2′,3′-dideoxyguanosine, 2′,3′-dideoxyadenosine, and 3′-deoxythymidine support structures are disclosed. Various methods of using such structures are also provided, such as their use for automated DNA synthesis and pyrophosphorolysis activated polymerization.
US09228224B2 Method for assaying OGFOD1 activity
The present invention relates to assays for monitoring activity of OGFOD1 activity, in particular, to assays for identifying modulators of OGFOD1 activity. The invention also relates to assays to monitor the prolyl hydroxylase activity of OGFOD1 on its substrate, the human ribosomal protein RPS23. The invention also enables the introduction of 3-hydroxyprolyl residues into peptides and proteins.
US09228222B2 Validation techniques for fluid delivery systems
A fluid delivery system may include a container that houses a medical fluid, a fluid pressurizing unit, and a fluid transfer set that transfers the medical fluid from the container to the fluid pressurizing unit. To validate the integrity and sterility of the fluid delivery system, the system may undergo testing protocols to evaluate the susceptibility of the system to pathogenic ingress, chemical degradation, and/or fluid cross-contamination between patient fluid delivery procedures. The testing protocols may help ensure that delivery system components used during multiple different fluid delivery procedures perform as well as if the components were replaced after each fluid delivery procedure.
US09228221B2 Validation techniques for fluid delivery systems
A fluid delivery system may include a container that houses a medical fluid, a fluid pressurizing unit, and a fluid transfer set that transfers the medical fluid from the container to the fluid pressurizing unit. To validate the integrity and sterility of the fluid delivery system, the system may undergo testing protocols to evaluate the susceptibility of the system to pathogenic ingress, chemical degradation, and/or fluid cross-contamination between patient fluid delivery procedures. The testing protocols may help ensure that delivery system components used during multiple different fluid delivery procedures perform as well as if the components were replaced after each fluid delivery procedure.
US09228218B2 Expression vector for animal cells including CSP-B 5′-SAR factor and method for producing recombinant proteins using same
The present invention relates to an expression vector for animal cells, comprising: (a) CSP-B (Cytotoxic Serine Protease-B) 5′-SAR (Scaffold or Matrix Attachment Region); (b) a promoter operable in animal cells; and (c) a polyadenylation sequence, and to a method for producing recombinant proteins using same. The vector of the present invention includes CSP-B 5′-SAR, and thus has the effect of overcoming the inhibition of gene expression according to the position of a foreign gene introduced into an animal cell, and significantly improving the expression rate of a target protein. The vector of the present invention effectively expresses recombinant proteins for drugs or antibodies in animal cells. The vector of the present invention and the method for producing recombinant proteins using same may be very usefully applied to the industrial mass production of drugs.
US09228217B2 Labeled biomolecular compositions and methods for the production and uses thereof
Disclosed herein is a set of E. coli single-protein production (SPP) technologies with protein NMR (SPP-NMR) for (i) using isotope-enriched membrane proteins produced with the SPP system in screening detergent conditions suitable for purification and/or three-dimensional structure analysis without the requirement for protein purification, (ii) producing 2H, 13C, 15N enriched proteins suitable for high throughput and membrane protein NMR studies, and (iii) labeling with 13C—15N specific peptide bonds in proteins (referred to herein as SPP-PBL).
US09228208B2 Methods and compositions for the targeted modification of a genome
Compositions and methods are provided for modifying a genomic locus of interest in a eukaryotic cell, a mammalian cell, a human cell or a non-human mammalian cell using a large targeting vector (LTVEC) comprising various endogenous or exogenous nucleic acid sequences as described herein. Further methods combine the use of the LTVEC with a CRISPR/Cas system. Compositions and methods for generating a genetically modified non-human animal comprising one or more targeted genetic modifications in their germline are also provided.
US09228203B2 Recombinant bicistronic flavivirus vectors
This invention relates to bicistronic flavivirus vectors, methods of using such vectors in the prevention and treatment of disease, and methods of making such vectors.
US09228201B2 Lettuce variety 45-89 RZ, “caledonas”
The present invention relates to a Lactuca sativa seed designated 45-89 RZ, which exhibits a combination of traits including resistance to downy mildew (Bremia lactucae Regel.) races NL:1-16 and Bl:18-28, and resistance to currant-lettuce aphid (Nasonovia ribisnigri) biotype Nr:0. The present invention also relates to a Lactuca sativa plant produced by growing the 45-89 RZ seed. The invention further relates to methods for producing the lettuce cultivar, represented by lettuce variety 45-89 RZ.
US09228200B2 Soybean variety DLL1344
The soybean variety DLL1344 is disclosed. The invention relates to seeds, plants, plant cells, plant tissue, harvested products and soybean lint as well as to hybrid soybean plants and seeds obtained by repeatedly crossing plants of variety DLL1344 with other plants. The invention also relates to plants and varieties produced by the method of essential derivation from plants of DLL1344 and to plants of DLL1344 reproduced by vegetative methods, including but not limited to tissue culture of regenerable cells or tissue from DLL1344.
US09228198B2 Soybean variety DLL1291
The soybean variety DLL1291 is disclosed. The invention relates to seeds, plants, plant cells, plant tissue, harvested products and soybean lint as well as to hybrid soybean plants and seeds obtained by repeatedly crossing plants of variety DLL1291 with other plants. The invention also relates to plants and varieties produced by the method of essential derivation from plants of DLL1291 and to plants of DLL1291 reproduced by vegetative methods, including but not limited to tissue culture of regenerable cells or tissue from DLL1291.
US09228197B2 Corn plant event MON87460 and compositions and methods for detection thereof
The present invention provides a transgenic corn event MON87460, and cells, seeds, and plants comprising DNA diagnostic for the corn event. The invention also provides compositions comprising nucleotide sequences that are diagnostic for MON87460 in a sample, methods for detecting the presence of MON87460 event polynucleotides in a sample, and probes and primers for use in detecting nucleotide sequences that are diagnostic for the presence of MON87460 in a sample. The present invention also provides methods of breeding with MON87460 to produce water deficit tolerance corn plants.
US09228192B2 Plant transformation with in vivo assembly of a sequence of interest using a site-specific recombinase
A process of producing transgenic plants or plant cells stably transformed on a chromosome with a DNA sequence of interest capable of expressing a function of interest, said process comprising (a) providing plant cells or plants with at least two different vectors that are adapted to recombine with each other between site-specific recombination sites compatible with a site-specific recombinase that is also provided in order to produce a non-replicating recombination product containing said DNA sequence of interest, (ii) said at least two different vectors are adapted for integrating said DNA sequence of interest into said chromosome, (iii) said DNA sequence of interest contains sequence portions from at least two of said at least two different vectors, said sequence portions being necessary for expressing said function of interest from said DNA sequence of interest; and (b) selecting plants or plant cells expressing said function of interest.
US09228190B2 Vector for constitutive high-level expression containing REPe mutant gene
A vector for constitutively expressing a high level of a target protein, and more particularly a RepE mutant protein containing a deletion of 21 amino acids in the C-terminal region of a RepE protein and a vector for constitutively expressing a high level of a target protein, which comprises a gene encoding the mutant protein. The constitutive high-level expression vector can stably express a high level of a target protein. Also, the surface expression vector can express a target protein on the surface of recombinant microorganisms while constitutively expressing a high level of the target protein, and thus will be useful for construction of an antigen for vaccines.
US09228185B2 Modulation of BCL11A for treatment of hemoglobinopathies
The invention relates to methods and uses of modulating fetal hemoglobin expression (HbF) in a hematopoietic progenitor cells via inhibitors of BCL11A expression or activity, such as RNAi and antibodies.
US09228181B2 β-glucosidase
The present invention relates to a polypeptide which has β-glucosidase activity, and which includes an amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID NO: 1, a polypeptide including an amino acid sequence in which one or several amino acids are deleted, substituted, or added in the amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID NO: 1, or a polypeptide including an amino acid sequence having 90% or greater sequence identity with the amino acid sequence represented by SEQ ID NO: 1. According to the present invention, a novel β-glucosidase enzyme derived from Acremonium cellulolyticus, a polynucleotide encoding the β-glucosidase, an expression vector for expressing the β-glucosidase, a transformant incorporated with that expression vector, and a method for producing a cellulose degradation product using the β-glucosidase can be provided.
US09228179B2 Polymerase
An engineered DNA polymerase characterised in that the polymerase exhibits an enhanced ability to process nucleic acid in the presence of environmental and biological inhibitors compared to wild type DNA polymerase.
US09228178B2 Engineering of xylose reductase and overexpression of xylitol dehydrogenase and xylulokinase improves xylose alcoholic fermentation in the thermotolerant yeast Hansenula polymorpha
Recombinant genetic constructs and strains of H. polymorpha having significantly increased ethanol productivity with a simultaneous decreased production of xylitol during high-temperature xylose fermentation are disclosed. The constructs include a H. polymorpha XYL1 gene encoding xylose reductase mutated to decrease affinity of the enzyme toward NADPH. The modified version of XYL1 gene under control of a strong constitutive HpGAP promoter was overexpressed in a Δxyl1 background. A recombinant H. polymorpha strain overexpressing the mutated enzyme together with native xylitol dehydrogenase and xylulokinase in the Δxyl1 background was also constructed. Xylose consumption, ethanol and xylitol production by the constructed strain were evaluated during high-temperature xylose fermentation (48° C.). A significant increase in ethanol productivity (up to 7.4 times) was shown in the recombinant strain as compared with the wild type strain. Moreover, the xylitol production by the recombinant strain was reduced considerably: 0.9 mgχ (Lχh)−1 versus 4.2 mgχ (Lxh)−1 by the wild type strain.
US09228176B2 Glucosyltransferase enzymes for production of glucan polymers
Reaction solutions are disclosed herein comprising water, sucrose and a glucosyltransferase enzyme that synthesizes poly alpha-1,3-glucan. The glucosyltransferase enzyme can synthesize insoluble glucan polymer having at least 50% alpha-1,3 glycosidic linkages and a number average degree of polymerization of at least 100. Further disclosed are methods of using such glucosyltransferase enzymes to produce insoluble poly alpha-1,3-glucan.
US09228174B2 Mutated rep encoding sequences for use in AAV production
Nucleic acids encoding Parvoviral Rep proteins with a mutated nuclear localization signal (NLS) are provided. Also provided is a nucleic acid comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding a Parvoviral Rep protein with a mutated zinc finger domain and a nucleic acid comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding a Parvoviral Rep protein comprising an amino acid mutation at position 43, 57, 79, 97, 120, 179, 305, 484, 493 or 571 with reference to SEQ ID NO: 2. Nucleic acid constructs and cells, such as insect cells, comprising the nucleic acids are provided as well as a method for producing a recombinant Parvoviral virion using the nucleic acids.
US09228171B2 Regulatory B cells (tBREGS) and their use
Regulatory B cells (tBreg) are disclosed herein. These regulatory B cells express CD25 (CD25+) a pan B cell marker such as B220 (B220+), and also express CD19 (CD19+). These regulatory B cells suppress resting and activated T cells in cell contact-dependent manner. Methods for generating these regulatory B cells are also disclosed herein, as are methods for using these regulatory B cells to produce regulatory T cells (Treg). In some embodiments, methods for treating an immune-mediated disorder, such as an autoimmune disease, transplant rejection, graft-versus-host disease or inflammation, are disclosed. These methods include increasing regulatory B cell number or activity and/or by administering autologous regulatory B cells. Methods for treating cancer are also disclosed herein. These methods include decreasing regulatory B cell activity and/or number.
US09228170B2 Cell programming
The present invention is concerned with methods for reprogramming of mammalian somatic cells and in particular to reprogramming of mature mammalian somatic cells into multi-potent precursor cells.
US09228165B2 Reactor systems
This disclosure relates to equipment utilized to manufacture chemical agents, particularly biopharmaceuticals. In some embodiments, reactor systems comprising a mobile carriage assembly; a disposable reaction container removably attached to the carriage assembly; and, a carriage holder into which the mobile carriage assembly may be removably inserted are provided.
US09228162B2 Transparency solid cleaning agent
The present invention relates to a transparent solid cleaning agent that is convenient to carry because it has solid pen shape, and has no concern of contents flowing because it is a solid. According to one aspect of the invention, a transparent solid cleaning agent comprising 10 to 70 wt % of gel forming material including alkali metal salt or ammonium salt of C8-36 aliphatic carboxylic acid, 2 to 30 wt % of a transparency agent, 2 to 30 wt % of a subsidiary transparency agent, 0.1 to 10 wt % of orange oil, and 0.5 to 20 wt % of anionic surfactant is provided. The transparent solid cleaning agent according to the present invention is convenient to carry because it has a solid pen shape, has no concern of contents flowing because it is a solid, prevents collapse or bending, and has an excellent sense of beauty because the contents are transparent.
US09228154B2 Method of lowering the cloud point of fatty acid esters
The present invention provides a robust and efficient process for reducing the cloud point of biodiesel fuel in which clathrates are formed from saturated fatty acid components as solvent is evaporated from a mixture of urea, methanol and fatty acid esters. The process speed can be fast, and is governed by the speed with which urea can be brought into clathrate forming contact with the fatty acid esters in the first instance, and then by the speed that solvent can be evaporated. Advantageously, substantially all of the solvent can be evaporated as pure solvent, which enhances process efficiencies and reduces cost. Additionally, substantially all of the urea can be used to form clathrates, further maximizing process efficiency.
US09228153B2 Surface-treating agent for oil seal lip portion
Disclosed is a surface-treating agent for oil seal lip portion, comprising a lubricant filler and an adduct compound consisting of an adduct of toluene diisocyanate and trimethylolpropane, the surface-treating agent being applied to the surface of vulcanized rubber forming a lip portion of an oil seal comprising the lip portion and a metal ring. The application of the surface-treating agent of the present invention to the sliding surface of a seal lip portion of an oil seal effectively lengthens the service life of the oil seal, when used in a sliding part or a moving part, and leads to energy saving of equipment that uses the oil seal.
US09228142B2 Naphthenic acid corrosion inhibition using new synergetic combination of phosphorus compounds
The present invention relates to the field of processing hydrocarbons which causes corrosion in the metal surfaces of processing units. The invention addresses the technical problem of high temperature naphthenic acid corrosion and sulphur corrosion and provides a solution to inhibit these types of corrosion. The three combination compositions are formed by three mixtures separately, with one mixture obtained by mixing compound A, which is obtained by reacting high reactive polyisobutylene (HRPIB) with phosphorous pentasulphide in presence of catalytic amount of sulphur with compound B such as trialkyl phosphate and second mixture obtained by mixing compound A with compound C such as phosphite like di-isodecyl phenyl phosphite, and third mixture obtained by mixing compound A with compound D such as a phosphonate, wherein each of these three mixtures independently provide high corrosion inhibition efficiency in case of high temperature naphthenic acid corrosion inhibition and sulphur corrosion inhibition. The invention is useful in all hydrocarbon processing units, such as, refineries, distillation columns and other petrochemical industries.
US09228141B2 Integrated hydroprocessing, steam pyrolysis and slurry hydroprocessing of crude oil to produce petrochemicals
Crude oil is charged to a hydroprocessing zone in the presence of hydrogen operating under conditions effective to produce a hydroprocessed effluent, which is thermally cracked in the presence of steam in a steam pyrolysis zone to produce a mixed product stream. Heavy components, which are derived from one or more of the hydroprocessed effluent, a heated stream within the steam pyrolysis zone, or the mixed product stream catalytically cracking are charged to a slurry hydroprocessing zone to produce a slurry intermediate product which is then thermally cracked. Olefins and aromatics are recovered from the separated mixed product stream as product.
US09228140B2 Integrated hydroprocessing, steam pyrolysis and catalytic cracking process to produce petrochemicals from crude oil
An integrated hydrotreating, steam pyrolysis and catalytic cracking process for the production of olefins and aromatic petrochemicals from a crude oil feedstock is provided. Crude oil and hydrogen are charged to a hydroprocessing zone under conditions effective to produce a hydroprocessed effluent, which is thermally cracked in the presence of steam in a steam pyrolysis zone to produce a mixed product stream. Heavy components are catalytically cracked, which are derived from one or more of the hydroprocessed effluent, a heated stream within the steam pyrolysis zone, or the mixed product stream catalytically cracking. Catalytically cracked products are produced, which are combined with the mixed product stream and the combined stream is separated, and olefins and aromatics are recovered as product streams.
US09228137B2 Method for making diesel with low polyaromatic content
Distillate feeds are hydroprocessed to produce a product having a low content of polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The hydroprocessing includes dewaxing and aromatic saturation of the feed. The temperature of the aromatic saturation process can be controlled to make a distillate product having a desired aromatic content, such as less the 0.02 wt % of polyaromatic hydrocarbons having three or more aromatic rings.
US09228134B1 Synthesis of liquid fuels and chemicals from oxygenated hydrocarbons
Described are methods for preparing liquid fuel and chemical intermediates from biomass-derived oxygenated hydrocarbons in a single reactor. The method includes reacting a water soluble oxygenated hydrocarbon in the presence of a catalyst at a temperature, pressure, and weight hour space velocity for a time sufficient to produce a self-separating, three-phase product stream comprising a vapor phase, an organic phase, and an aqueous phase. A portion of the organic phase can be reacted to produce alkanes, alkenes, alcohols, and aromatics.
US09228130B2 Alignment film, a method of fabricating the same, and a liquid crystal display using the same
The present invention relates a technique of liquid crystal display, especially to an alignment film applied to a substrate of a liquid crystal display. The alignment film includes a plurality of alignment molecules including polyamic acid and/or polyimide and a plurality of photo-sensitive molecules including terphenyl and/or substituted terphenyl, wherein a mass ratio of the plurality of alignment molecules to the plurality of photo-sensitive molecules is 3˜7%:0.0002˜2%. The present invention further provides a method of fabricating the alignment film and a liquid crystal display using the same. Due to the photosensitive group of the monomers, the plurality of alignment molecules can be formed with an appropriated rate, and the alignment film formed thereby has homogeneity. Therefore, the optic quality and overall performance of the liquid crystal display are enhanced.
US09228126B2 Additive composition for control and inhibition of polymerization of aromatic vinyl monomers, and method of use thereof
The present invention relates to an improved additive composition for control and inhibition of polymerization of aromatic vinyl monomers including styrene comprising one or more of aromatic nitro compounds and one or more of aliphatic tertiary amines. In one embodiment, the present invention also relates to method of use of presently provided composition. In another embodiment, the present invention also relates to method of controlling and inhibiting polymerization of aromatic vinyl monomers including styrene by employing presently provided composition. In still another embodiment, the present invention also relates to method of preparation of presently provided composition.
US09228124B2 Electrochromic materials and electrochromic devices using the same
Disclosed herein are novel electrochromic materials. The electrochromic materials produce various colors and have bistability to achieve red-green-blue full colors. Therefore, the electrochromic materials can be used in a variety of electrochromic devices. Also disclosed herein are electrochromic devices fabricated using the electrochromic materials.
US09228123B2 Temperature sensitive viscoelastic well-treatment fluids
The present invention is directed to fracturing fluids having temperature-sensitive viscosities. The fracturing fluids may include a mixture of a hydrophobically associative polymer (HAP) and a surfactant in an aqueous medium, wherein the surfactant imparts a critical solution temperature (CST) to the fluid. The fluid is more viscous at temperatures lower than the CST as compared to temperatures above the CST.
US09228122B2 Methods and cement compositions utilizing treated polyolefin fibers
Methods and cement compositions are provided that utilize treated polyolefin fibers for lost circulation and/or mechanical property enhancement. Disclosed is a method comprising: providing a cement composition comprising: a hydraulic cement; water; and treated polyolefin fibers that are rod-shaped and have a length in a range from about 0.0625 inches to about 0.25 inches, wherein the treated polyolefin fibers have been treated with a surfactant to make the treated polyolefin fibers hydrophilic; placing the cement composition in a selected location; and allowing the cement composition to set.
US09228118B2 Production method for polyamide acid particles, production method for polyimide particles, polyimide particles and bonding material for electronic component
An object of the present invention is to provide a method for producing polyamide acid particles which is used as a raw material for polyimide particles with a small average particle diameter having high heat resistance. Other objects of the present invention are to provide a method for producing polyimide particles using the method for producing polyamide acid particles, and polyimide particles produced by the method for producing polyimide particles. Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a bonding material for an electronic component, which has a low linear expansion coefficient and a low elastic modulus after being cured in the temperature range equal to or less than the glass transition temperature, so that a joined body with high reliability can be produced. The present invention is a method for producing polyamide acid particles having a step of preparing a solution having a diamine compound dissolved, and a step of precipitating polyamide acid particles by adding a tetracarboxylic anhydride in a non-solution state to the solution having a diamine compound dissolved while applying a physical impact thereto.
US09228095B2 Photocatalytically active polysiloxane coating compositions
The invention is a coating composition comprising photocatalytic titanium dioxide particles, an opacifying agent, a silicone compound, de-HNO3 particles, styrene resin hollow microspheres, and a solvent. The combination of a silicone compound and styrene resin hollow microspheres in a depolluting coating composition results in improved opacity and durability compared to conventional coatings.
US09228094B2 Protective coatings for inorganic substrates and coated inorganic substrates
A composition for protecting a surface of an inorganic substrate, such as concrete, terrazzo, or ceramic tile, includes a silicate (i.e., an alkali metal polysilicate or a colloidal silica), a siliconate (e.g., a metal siliconate, such as an alkali metal methyl siliconate, etc.), acrylic latex, a silane coupling agent, and a solvent, such as ethylene glycol monobutyl ether. Inorganic substrates, such as concrete, stone, and ceramic materials, with such a composition on their surfaces are also disclosed, as are methods for polishing and protecting inorganic substrates.
US09228093B2 Colored water-repellant and crocking-resistant compositions
The present disclosure provides colored compositions formulated to provide water repellency and crocking resistance when applied as a coating to a surface (e.g., the surface of a wood product). The compositions include a colored pigment, a wax emulsion, a latex polymer, and a halogenated phosphate ester. Wood products treated with the composition, as well as methods for applying the composition to a surface, are also provided.
US09228092B2 Electrochemically deposited indium composites
Electrochemically deposited indium composites are disclosed. The indium composites include indium metal or an alloy of indium with one or more ceramic materials. The indium composites have high bulk thermal conductivities. Articles containing the indium composites also are disclosed.
US09228091B2 Ferrite thin film-forming composition material, method of forming ferrite thin film, and ferrite thin film formed using the same
To provide a ferrite thin film-forming composition material that is a composition material for forming a ferrite thin film by using the sol-gel method which can form a thin ferrite thin film having a uniform thickness and, furthermore, has excellent long-term storage stability, a method of forming a ferrite thin film using the above composition material, and a ferrite thin film formed by using the above method. A ferrite thin film-forming composition material is a composition material for forming a NiZn ferrite, CuZn ferrite, or NiCuZn ferrite thin film by using a sol-gel method, in which the composition material is formed by dissolving metallic raw materials in a solvent including acetonitrile, and the fraction of acetonitrile is 30 mass % to 60 mass % with respect to 100 mass % of the composition material.
US09228090B2 Treated inorganic pigments having reduced photoactivity and improved anti-microbial properties and their use in coating compositions
The disclosure provides a coating composition comprising a treated inorganic particle having reduced photoactivity and improved anti-microbial properties, wherein the treated inorganic particle comprises: an inorganic core particle; a first treatment of a silicon compound, wherein the silicon compound is added in a single step; and a second treatment comprising co-precipitated zinc oxide and alumina.
US09228086B2 Siloxane based hollow fibers
The present invention provides inventive hollow fibers having defined gas permability characteristics. Hollow fibers of the present invention are characterized by a PMPCO2 greater than 30,000 Barrer*MPa. Curable compositions and silicone elastomers produced by curing the curable compositions are provided by the present invention. Compositions and methods for making the hollow fibers and devices incorporating them are provided by the present invention.
US09228081B2 Biological polymeric compositions and methods related thereto
Embodiments of the present invention relate to a method of making a biopolymeric material comprising contacting a biopolymer and a binder sufficient to form a mixture, heating the mixture and profile extruding the mixture sufficient to create a biopolymeric material. Embodiments also relate to a method of making a biopolymeric material comprising contacting a biopolymer and a reactive composite sufficient to form a mixture, heating the mixture and profile extruding the mixture sufficient to create a biopolymeric material.
US09228077B2 Rubber composition and tire
The present invention relates to a rubber composition including a rubber component (A), a farnesene polymer (B) and silica (C).
US09228060B2 Method for manufacturing sulfonated aromatic polymer
An object of the present invention is to provide a method for industrially advantageously manufacturing a sulfonated aromatic polymer while preventing a reduction in the molecular weight of the resulting sulfonated aromatic polymer. The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a sulfonated aromatic polymer, comprising sulfonating an aromatic polymer and a sulfonating agent in the presence of a solvent of a compound containing a sulfonyl group (—SO2—).
US09228059B2 Preparation of thioether polymers
Polythioethers and methods for forming polythioethers are disclosed herein. The polythioethers are prepared from thiols and hexahydrotriazines. The thiols may be, for example, dithiols, trithiols, monothiols, or mixtures thereof. The polythioethers are prepared from an efficient and simple synthetic method, and the properties of the prepared polythioethers can be readily tuned. The prepared polythioethers may additionally have improved thermal properties, improved mechanical properties, and enhanced functionality.
US09228057B2 Polyamide, polyamide composition, and molded article
A polyamide comprising a unit containing at least one (a) alicyclic dicarboxylic acid and a unit containing a (b) diamine having 8 or more carbon atoms, wherein the polyamide satisfies the following conditions (1) and (2): (1) a sulfuric acid relative viscosity ηr at 25° C. is 2.3 or more; and (2) Mw (weight average molecular weight)/Mn (number average molecular weight) is 4.0 or less.
US09228047B2 Low density polyurethane foams
Embodiments of the invention provide for low density flexible polyurethane foams are reaction products of reaction systems including at least one polyol and at least one isocyanate including at least 50% by weight of an MDI based isocyanate. The flexible polyurethane foam has a density of less than about 33 kg/m3 as determined according to ASTM D 3574-01, a tear strength of more than about 160 N/m as determined according to NBR 8515:2003 and a resiliency of at least 45% as measured according to ASTM D-3574-H.
US09228046B2 Low gloss thermoplastic resin composition with soft touch surface and molded article therefrom
Disclosed herein is a low gloss thermoplastic resin composition with a soft touch surface comprising (A) about 10 to about 80% by weight of a soft rubbery aromatic vinyl copolymer resin which comprises rubber particles with a graft ratio of about 40 to about 90% and an average particle diameter of about 6 to about 20 μm as a dispersed phase; (B) about 4 to about 60% by weight of a rubber-modified aromatic vinyl copolymer resin; and (C) about 5 to about 80% by weight of an aromatic vinyl-vinyl cyanide copolymer resin. The molded article molded from the thermoplastic resin composition can have a soft touch surface as well as excellent low gloss and impact strength.
US09228045B2 Method for preparing a latex from a chlorinated vinylic polymer
Process for preparing a seed latex of a methyl methacrylate polymer (PMMA) by radical polymerization in aqueous emulsion of methyl methacrylate and optionally at least one comonomer.Process for preparing a chlorinated vinyl polymer latex by radical polymerization in aqueous emulsion of at least one chlorinated vinyl monomer, according to which the polymerization takes place in the presence of at most 3% by weight, expressed relative to the total weight of the monomers, of the PMMA seed latex.
US09228043B2 Application of composition containing telechelic macromer and photoinitiator for producing implant for hernia repair
The present invention relates to an application of a composition containing telechelic macromer and photoinitiator for producing implant for hernia repair. The macromer structure is defined by Formula 1. The macromer bears (meth)acrylic end-groups and comprises a core Y defined by Formulas 2 to 9, that is linked by urethane, ester or anhydride bonds to the (meth)acrylic groups. The iodine value of the macromer is from 5 to 75. The composition according to the present invention can be shaped at room temperature and at 37° C. and is capable of undergoing liquid-to-solid transition upon irradiation with low intensity light. Upon irradiation with light the composition gains desired physicochemical properties and turns into an elastic solid. The implant for hernia repair serves for closing the hernia opening and for enhancing mechanical strength of abdominal wall.
US09228036B2 Low density ethylene-based polymers with broad molecular weight distributions and low extractables
The invention provides an ethylene-based polymer comprising the following properties: a) a melt index (12)>2.0 dg/min; b) a Mw(abs) versus 12 relationship: Mw(abs)C+D(I2), where C=127.5 Pa, and D=−1.25 Pa/(dg/min). The invention also provides an ethylene-based polymer comprising the following properties: a) a melt index (12)>2.0 dg/min; b) a G′ versus 12 relationship: G′>C+D(I2), where C=127.5 Pa, and D=−1.25 Pa/(dg/min) c) a chloroform extractable (Clext) versus G′ relationship: Clext.
US09228028B2 Continuous process for preparing polyfluoroacrylate particles
The present invention is directed to processes for making a crosslinked cation exchange polymer comprising a fluoro group and an acid group. The process allows the polymer to be efficiently made on a commercial scale, and the polymers are useful to bind potassium in the gastrointestinal tract of a human or animal subject.
US09228025B2 Chicken antibodies that bind to nanoparticles
Antibodies and antibody fragments that selectively bind to nanoparticles are provided herein.
US09228021B2 Anti-ErbB3 antibodies
Monoclonal antibodies that bind and inhibit activation of epidermal growth factor receptor related member ErbB3/HER3 are disclosed. The antibodies can be used to treat cell proliferative diseases and disorders, including certain forms of cancer, associated with activation of ErbB3/HER3.
US09228019B2 Humanized anti-CXCR5 antibodies, derivatives thereof and their use
The present invention relates to humanized antibodies that specifically bind to CXCR5 and can, for example, inhibit CXCR5 function. The invention also includes uses of the antibodies to treat or prevent CXCR5 related diseases or disorders.
US09228017B2 Antibody constant region variant
By altering amino acid sequence, the present inventors succeeded in providing constant regions that can confer antibodies with favorable properties, particularly as pharmaceuticals. The variants of the constant regions provided by the present invention will remarkably reduce heterogeneity when applied to antibody production. That is, homogeneity of antibodies can be maintained at a high level by introducing the alterations provided by the present invention into the antibody heavy chain constant regions. More specifically, decrease in homogeneity caused by —SS— bond linkage differences in the heavy chains of antibody molecules can be prevented. Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, pharmacokinetics of antibodies can be improved and decrease in homogeneity caused by deletion of the C terminus in the antibody constant region can be ameliorated.
US09228015B2 Nogo receptor antagonists and methods of increasing neurite outgrowth
Disclosed are immunogenic Nogo receptor-1 polypeptides, Nogo receptor-1 antibodies, antigen-binding fragments thereof, soluble Nogo receptors and fusion proteins thereof and nucleic acids encoding the same. Also disclosed are Nogo receptor antagonist polynucleotides. Also disclosed are compositions comprising, and methods for making and using, such Nogo receptor antibodies, antigen-binding fragments thereof, soluble Nogo receptors and fusion proteins thereof, nucleic acids encoding the same and antagonist polynucleotides.
US09228014B2 Antibodies capable of blocking the interaction between CD48 and a CD48 receptor
The present invention provides antibodies that bind to CD48 and methods of using same. According to certain embodiments of the invention, the antibodies are fully human antibodies that bind to human CD48. In certain embodiments, the antibodies of the present invention block the binding of CD48 to one or more CD48 receptor. The antibodies of the invention are useful, inter alia, for the treatment of diseases and disorders associated with one or more CD48 biological activities, including the treatment of allergic conditions and other inflammatory conditions.
US09228009B2 Multi-hierarchical self-assembly of a collagen mimetic peptide
The present disclosure generally relates to collagen, and more particularly compositions and methods related to collagen-mimetic peptides. More specifically, the present disclosure provides a collagen-mimetic peptide and peptide systems comprising the amino acid sequence (Pro-Lys-Gly)4(Pro-Hyp-Gly)4(Asp-Hyp-Gly)4.
US09228006B2 Methods and compositions for modulating Toso activity
The present invention is further directed to methods and compositions for modulating the activity of the Toso protein. The invention further encompasses treatment of disorders associated with inflammation, autoimmune disorders, and cancer using compositions that include a soluble Toso protein.
US09228003B2 Complement factor B analogs and their uses
The invention provides polypeptides comprising a complement factor B analog. The invention also provides various complement factor B analogs including complement factor B analogs comprising a mutation of a free cysteine amino acid and related methods, nucleic acids and vectors. These complement factor B analogs and related methods, nucleic acids and vectors can be used to modulate a complement pathway or for the study and/or treatment of various conditions or diseases related to a complement pathway.
US09228002B2 Leishmania vaccine using sand fly salivary immunogen
The present invention provides vectors that contain and express in vivo or in vitro sand fly Lu. longipalpis salivary antigens that elicit an immune response in animal or human against Leishmania, vaccine compositions comprising said vectors and/or Lu. longipalpis salivary polypeptides, methods of vaccination against Leishmania, and kits for use with such methods and compositions.
US09228000B1 Flagellin related polypeptides and uses thereof
The use of flagellin and flagellin related polypeptides for the protection of mammals from the effects of apoptosis is described.
US09227997B2 Composition for treating sepsis or septic shock comprising the peptide originated from the Smad6
Disclosed is a pharmaceutical composition comprising a Smad6-derived peptide as an active ingredient. Having ability to specifically bind to Pellino-1, the Smad6-derived peptide is effectively useful in the treatment of the sepsis mediated by excessively activated TLR. The peptide effectively reduces the expression of inflammatory cytokines, protects cells from sepsis-induced apoptosis, and exhibits high bacterial clearance in animal models of sepsis.
US09227993B2 Uridine diphosphate derivatives, compositions and methods for treating neurodegenerative disorders
This disclosure relates to uridine diphosphate (UDP) derivatives, compositions comprising therapeutically effective amounts of those UDP derivatives and methods of using those derivatives or compositions in treating disorders that are responsive to ligands, such as agonists, of P2Y6 receptor, e.g., neuronal disorders, including neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's disease) and traumatic CNS injury, as well as pain.
US09227987B2 Method for producing amido-zinc halide/alkali-metal halide compounds
The invention relates to a method for producing amido-zinc halides as adducts with alkali-metal halides (R1R2N—ZnY*LiY) in aprotic organic solvents, in which a) a primary or secondary amine dissolved in an aprotic organic solvent is provided, b) a lithium base (RxLi) is added in a metered manner, and c) a ZnY2 is subsequently added.
US09227985B2 Tricyclic heterocycles as bet protein inhibitors
The present invention relates to tricyclic heterocycles of Formula (I): which are inhibitors of BET proteins such as BRD2, BRD3, BRD4, and BRD-t and are useful in the treatment of diseases such as cancer.
US09227980B2 Methods for the purification of cucurbituril
A method for purifying a cucurbituril from a mixture. The method includes the step of forming a complex between the cucurbituril and a cucurbituril guest. The complex has altered physical and/or chemical properties to the cucurbituril which allow the complex to be separated from at least one other component of the mixture. The mixture includes the cucurbituril, the other component and a solvent.
US09227974B2 Compositions and methods for the treatment of respiratory disorders
The invention relates to the compounds of formula I or its pharmaceutical acceptable salts, as well as polymorphs, solvates, enantiomers, stereoisomers and hydrates thereof. The pharmaceutical compositions comprising an effective amount of compounds of formula I, and methods for the treatment of respiratory disorders may be formulated for oral, buccal, rectal, topical, transdermal, transmucosal, intravenous, parenteral administration, syrup, or injection. Such compositions may be used to treatment of viscid or excessive mucus, cough, inflammation, redness in sore throat, infection in the throat, sore throat, abnormal mucus secretion, impaired mucus transport, allergic rhinitis, asthma, COPD, respiratory muscular disorders and pain in acute sore throat.
US09227972B2 Aliphatic spirolactam CGRP receptor antagonists
The present invention is directed to aliphatic spirolactam derivatives which are antagonists of CGRP receptors and useful in the treatment or prevention of diseases in which CGRP is involved, such as migraine. The invention is also directed to pharmaceutical\compositions comprising these compounds and the use of these compounds and compositions in the prevention or treatment of such diseases in which CGRP is involved.
US09227970B2 Triazolopyridine compounds
The invention is concerned with triazolopyridine compounds of formula (I) wherein R1, R2 and R3 are as defined in the description and in the claims, as well as physiologically acceptable salts thereof. These compounds inhibit PDE10A and can be used as medicaments.
US09227968B2 Method of treatment or prophylaxis of inflammatory pain
A method of treatment, reversal and/or symptomatic relief of inflammatory pain, including hyperalgesia, thermal or mechanical allodynia, in vertebrate animals, particularly in human subjects, comprising administering angiotensin II receptor 2 (AT2 receptor) antagonists is disclosed. The AT2 receptor antagonist may be provided alone or in combination with other compounds such as those that are useful in the control of inflammatory pain.
US09227956B2 Substituted amide compounds
The present invention is directed at substituted amide compounds, pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds and the use of such compounds to reduce plasma lipid levels, such as LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides and accordingly to treat diseases which are exacerbated by high levels of LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides, such as atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases, in mammals, including humans.
US09227953B2 Crystal form
A novel crystalline form of rilapladib, and use thereof in treatment of diseases mediated by Lp-PLA2, is disclosed.
US09227946B2 1-[2-(2,4 dimethylphenylsulfanyl)-phenyl]piperazine as a compound with combined serotonin reuptake, 5-HT3 and 5-HT1a activity for the treatment of cognitive impairment
1-[2-(2,4-dimethylphenylsulphanyl)phenyl]piperazine exhibits potent activity on SERT, 5-HT3 and 5-HT1A and may as such be useful for the treatment of cognitive impairment, especially in depressed patients.
US09227933B2 3-phenoxymethylpyrrolidine compounds
In one aspect, the invention relates to compounds of formula I: where R1-6 are as defined in the specification, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. The compounds of formula I are serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. In another aspect, the invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds; methods of using such compounds; and process and intermediates for preparing such compounds.
US09227930B2 Aminoindane derivatives, pharmaceutical compositions containing them, and their use in therapy
The present invention relates to aminoindane derivatives of the formula (I) or a physiologically tolerated salt thereof. The invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such aminoindane derivatives, and the use of such aminoindane derivatives for therapeutic purposes. The aminoindane derivatives are GlyT1 inhibitors.
US09227929B2 Sulfonation in continuous-flow microreactors
A continuous flow process for sulfonating 1,2.diaminobenzene comprises introducing a sulfonation mixture into a microreactor inlet of a continuous flow microreactor to produce a flow of the sulfonation mixture through the continuous flow microreactor. The sulfonation mixture comprises 1,2 aminobenzene dissolved in a molar excess of sulfuric acid. The continuous flow microreactor comprises one or more individual fluidic modules each having various features with respect to channel width and thermal management. The process further comprises maintaining a reaction temperature of from about 150.230 deg C. in at least a portion of the individual fluidic modules while the sulfonation mixture flows from the microreactor inlet to the microreactor outlet. Thereupon, the sulfonation mixture is received from the microreactor outlet. Finally, a sulfonated reaction product is precipitated out of the sulfonation mixture received from the microreactor outlet. The sulfonated reaction product is 3,4.diaminosulfonic acid, free of doubly sulfonated impurities.
US09227928B2 Processes for the preparation of 2,5-dihydroxybenzenesulfonic acid salts
Processes for the preparation of 2,5-dihydroxybenzenesulfonic acid salts of formula (I) and a crystalline form of potassium 2,5 2,5-dihydroxybenzenesulfonic acid are provided.
US09227926B2 Method of synthesis of azo compounds
A process is provided for synthesizing an azo compound, such as AIBN, by oxidation of a hydrazo compound using hydrogen peroxide. This process comprises a step of adding to the reaction medium a particular reducing agent, such as hydrazine.
US09227923B2 Pesticidal carboxamides
The object of the present invention is to provide novel carboxamides which exhibit an excellent pesticidal activity as pesticides. Disclosed are the carboxamides represented by the following Formula (I): wherein each substituent is as defined in the specification, and use thereof as pesticides and animal parasite controlling agents.
US09227921B2 Salts and polymorphs of a tetracycline compound
Crystalline forms, including salts and polymorphs, of a compound useful in the treatment of tetracycline compound-responsive states are provided herein. The crystalline compounds are useful for the treatment or prevention of conditions and disorders such as bacterial infections and neoplasms, as well as other known applications for tetracycline compounds in general.
US09227918B2 Short acting phenylalkylamine calcium channel blockers and uses thereof
The present invention relates to the use of a pharmaceutically effective amount of an short-acting calcium channel blocking compound to treat ischemic heart conditions, cardiac arrhythmias, hypertensive crisis in an emergency room setting, hypertension before, during, or after surgery, no-reflow phenomenon following reperfusion, and diseases associated with decreased skeletal muscle blood flow. The invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions formulated for use in such methods and to kits for such methods.
US09227910B2 Gem-dinitro ester energetic material using esterification and preparation method thereof
This invention relates to a gem-dinitro ester energetic material represented by Chemical Formula 1 below, which is synthesized using esterification, and to a preparation method thereof: wherein R is a C5˜C15 substituted or unsubstituted linear or branched alkyl group.
US09227901B2 Process for preparing bicyclic amine derivatives
The present invention provides a process for preparing a bicyclic amine derivative of the formula (Ia) or (Ib), comprising the rhodium-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of an enamine of the formula (II), in the presence of a chiral ligand, wherein the chiral ligand is a chiral phosphine ligand.
US09227900B2 Method for preparing 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-cyclopropyl-1-propanone and intermediate thereof
A method is for preparing 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-cyclopropyl-1-propanone and an intermediate thereof, where in the method for preparing a compound of formula (I), α-alkoxy p-chlorobenzyl phosphonate (II) and cyclopropyl methyl ketone are used as raw materials, and subjected to a Homer-Wadsworth-Emmons reaction in an organic solvent in the presence of a base, so as to prepare a derivative of alkoxy propylene with the structure of formula (III); and the resulting derivative of alkoxy propylene (III) is hydrolyzed under acidic conditions to obtain 1-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-cyclopropyl-1-propanone (I).
US09227893B2 Method for producing 2-chloro-3,3,3,-trifluoropropene (HCFC-1233xf)
The present invention relates to an improved method for manufacturing 2-chloro-3,3,3,-trifluoropropene (HCFC-1233xf) by reacting 1,1,2,3-tetrachloropropene, 1,1,1,2,3-pentachloropropane, and/or 2,3,3,3-tetrachloropropene with hydrogen fluoride, in a vapor phase reaction vessel in the presence of a vapor phase fluorination catalyst and stabilizer. HCFC-1233xf is an intermediate in the production of 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (HFO-1234yf) which is a refrigerant with low global warming potential.
US09227887B2 Process for the oxidative coupling of hydrocarbons
A method for the oxidative coupling of hydrocarbons, such as the oxidative coupling of methane to toluene, includes providing an oxidative catalyst inside a reactor, and carrying out the oxidative coupling reaction under a set of reaction conditions. The oxidative catalyst includes (A) at least one element selected from the group consisting of the Lanthanoid group, Mg, Ca, and the elements of Group 4 of the periodic table (Ti, Zr, and Hf); (B) at least one element selected from the group consisting of the Group 1 elements of Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, and the elements of Group 3 (including La and Ac) and Groups 5-15 of the periodic table; (C) at least one element selected from the group consisting of the Group 1 elements of Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, and the elements Ca, Sr, and Ba; and (D) oxygen.
US09227886B2 Polymerization process
The present invention relates to a polymerization process of producing ethylene-alpha-olefin polymer. The polymerization process comprises supplying at a feed temperature a feed containing ethylene, at least one alpha-olefin and optionally, a diene in a solvent, the solvent is supplied at a solvent feed rate; supplying at a catalyst feed rate a catalyst to a reactor, and contacting the feed with the catalyst to produce a reaction mixture containing the polymer. The present invention also relates to processes for improving the energy utilization of polymerization processes, wherein the process comprises decreasing the feed temperature, decreasing the solvent feed rate, and decreasing the catalyst feed rate.
US09227885B2 Process to make olefins from isobutanol
A process for the conversion of an alcohol mixture may include introducing into a reactor a stream including the alcohol mixture mixed with a stream including olefins having 4 carbon atoms or more. The process may include contacting the stream with a single catalyst at a temperature above 500° C. in the reactor at conditions effective to dehydrate isobutanol, forming C4+ olefins, and to catalytically crack the C4+ olefins. The single catalyst may be an acid catalyst adapted to cause both the dehydration and catalytic cracking. The process may include recovering an effluent including ethylene, propylene, and water, and fractionating the effluent.
US09227884B2 Method of producing substitute natural gas
Provided is a method of producing a substitute natural gas. The method includes: generating carbon monoxide and hydrogen using coal and a metal fuel; and generating methane from the generated carbon monoxide and hydrogen. Since the method supplies a metal fuel along with coal, generates hydrogen from the metal fuel, and supplies the hydrogen, the amount of coal needed to generate methane through methanation may be reduced and the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) generated when the coal is combusted may be reduced.
US09227880B2 High porosity cordierite honeycomb articles
Methods of making a porous cordierite ceramic honeycomb article are provided. In example methods, a batch composition includes a quantity of non-crosslinked pore former provided as a superaddition of about 20% or less of a dry weight of a quantity of inorganic components. Batch compositions are also provided that include a quantity of clay and other substantially nonfibrous inorganic components sufficient to yield an article including cordierite. Example batch compositions can include clay having a median particle size of about 7 μm or less and/or provided in an amount that is 10% or less of the dry weight of the quantity of inorganic components.
US09227878B2 Selected binders for the extrusion of ultra-thin wall cellular ceramics
The disclosure provides for a mixture suitable for extrusion and firing to form a ceramic honeycomb substrate, said mixture comprising a batch composition selected from the group consisting of a cordierite batch composition and an aluminum titanate batch composition, an optional pore former material; a binder material and water; wherein said binder is a methyl ether of cellulose binder having a count of less than 300 water-insoluble fibers per gram of binder material.
US09227866B2 Porous waste glass membrane
The present invention disclosed in this application relates to a method for producing glass membranes for filtration purposes. The disclosed method for producing cost effective glass membranes utilizes recycled waste glass, has shorter sintering periods and has lower sintering temperatures.
US09227862B2 Process for sewage water purification
Process and apparatus to remove colloids and nitrogen compounds from contaminated water by coagulating the colloids and separating them from the water. The water is then continuously oxidized with chlorine electrolytically to destroy the nitrogen compounds.
US09227860B1 Dispensing systems
A system for sensing and measuring water characteristics or an external factor and initiating controlling the water characteristics of the body of water which may be based on external factor where the controlling of the water characteristics can be achieved through dosing or nondosing of an inactive material through an active material or dosing both an active material and an inactive material in the body of water in response to measured levels of water characteristics to enable the water to be used for either internal or external use in controlling harmful organisms.
US09227858B2 Electrical purification apparatus
An electrical purification apparatus and methods of making same are disclosed. The electrical purification apparatus may provide for increases in operation efficiencies, for example, with respect to current efficiencies and membrane utilization.
US09227857B2 Method, apparatus and system for desalinating saltwater
The present disclosure is directed at an apparatus, method and plant for desalinating saltwater and contaminated saltwater. The apparatus comprises a stack and a manifolding assembly. The stack comprises a product chamber, a first and second concentrate chamber, an anion exchange membrane forming a boundary between the first concentrate chamber and the product chamber and a cation exchange membrane forming a boundary between the second concentrate chamber and the product chamber. The manifolding assembly comprises product and concentrate manifolding fluidly coupled to the product and concentrate chambers respectively, to convey a saltwater being desalinated to and away from the product chamber, and a concentrate to and away from the concentrate chambers. The stack may include a diluent chamber and adjacent anion or cation exchange membranes between the product chamber, diluent chamber and concentrate chamber to respectively convey anions or cations across multiple chambers. The stack may also contain a rinse chamber bounded by an anion exchange membrane to guard the stack electrodes from scaling cations. A cleaning system for cleaning the stack is also disclosed.
US09227856B2 Submerged plate forward osmosis systems
Described herein is a submerged plate membrane device intended for use in forward osmosis processes, particularly for concentrating various process streams such as those in ponds. Particular examples of feed streams that may be concentrated are for example the following feed solutions: brines, seawater, drilling mud, waste water, bio-digestate, and the like. Thus, the process and device described herein are useful for de-watering, and thus concentrating, the content of solar evaporation ponds and drilling mud ponds.
US09227847B2 Method for preparing vanadium-nitrogen alloy
A method for preparing vanadium-nitrogen alloy, the method including: 1) mixing and pressing a vanadium-containing compound, an agglutinant, and a carbon-premixed reducing agent to yield a spherical raw material, and air drying the spherical raw material; and 2) mixing the spherical raw material with a granular carbonaceous reducing agent to yield a mixture, and continually feeding the mixture into a shaft kiln of a medium frequency induction furnace, purging the shaft kiln with pure nitrogen and maintaining a furnace pressure at between 0.01 and 0.03 mPa, drying the mixture at a temperature of between 100 and 600° C., carbonizing and nitriding at a temperature of between 900 and 1350° C., cooling the resulting product to less than 100° C., and discharging the product.
US09227839B2 Wafer level packaged infrared (IR) focal plane array (FPA) with evanescent wave coupling
A structure for detecting electromagnetic radiation having a predetermined wavelength. The structure includes a device wafer having a sensing element disposed on a predetermined region of a surface of the device wafer responsive to the electromagnetic radiation. A cover wafer is provided having a region thereof transparent to the electromagnetic radiation for passing the electromagnetic radiation through the transparent region onto a surface of the sensing element. A bond gap spacer structure is provided for supporting the surface of the sensing element from an opposing surface of the transparent region of the cover wafer a distance less than a fraction of the predetermined wavelength when the cover wafer is bonded to the device wafer.
US09227835B2 Vibration isolation interposer die
In an example, an interposer chip is provided. The interposer chip includes a base portion and a chip mounting portion. The interposer chip also includes one or more flexures connecting the base portion to the chip mounting portion. Additionally, a first plurality of projections extends from the base portion towards the chip mounting portion, and a second plurality of projections extends from the chip mounting portion towards the base portion and extending into interstices formed by first plurality of projections.
US09227825B2 Bottle coupling device
A bottle coupling device for connecting a first bottle to a second bottle is provided. The first bottle has a first threaded opening and the second bottle has a second threaded opening. The first bottle holds a first substance and the second bottle holds a second substance. The bottle coupling device comprises a hollow female coupling having an outer surface and an inner surface with a first end and a second end. The inner surface of the first end and the second end are threaded. The first opening of the first bottle is threadably connectable to the first end of the female coupling and the second opening of the second bottle is threadably connectable to the second end of the female coupling. Wherein the second substance is transferrable to the first bottle through the female coupling.
US09227817B2 Toe guard assembly for an elevator system
An exemplary elevator toe guard assembly includes a first panel. A second panel is slidable relative to the first panel in a first direction between an extended position and a retracted position. The first panel moves in a second, different direction from an extended position toward a folded position responsive to the second panel moving toward the retracted position.
US09227816B2 Vertical support structure and lifting device having the same
The vertical support structure includes a half tube and a mounting member. The half tube has an inner surface defining a receiving space and formed with a series of axially spaced-apart helical groove halves. The mounting member is connected to an outer surface of the half tube. A lifting device is also disclosed, and includes a plurality of the vertical support structures, a plurality of rotation units, a plurality of slide housings, a lift carrier, a drive motor and a plurality of transmission units.
US09227815B2 Selective elevator braking during emergency stop
A method for controlling movement of an elevator car during an emergency stop includes the steps of determining the load of the car; determining the travel direction of the car; and monitoring the speed of the car. When the car is determined to be either lightly loaded and travelling downwards, or heavily loaded and travelling upwards, brake torque is applied only when the speed of the car reaches zero, as slowing of the car can be accomplished solely by virtue of the balancing factor of the car's counterweight.
US09227813B2 Flat harness winding device
A flat harness winding device includes: a case; a rotor rotatably disposed in the case; a shaft of the case inserted into a hole in the center of the rotor; a plurality of harness split rollers rotatably disposed in the rotor; and a plurality of flat harnesses each of which one end is fixed to the shaft, said flat harnesses independently bent along respective harness split rollers and guided out from an opening of the case allowed to be wound. Harness support rollers are rotatably disposed on the rotor in spaces between the harness split rollers. Curve-shaped harness guide ribs are disposed on the rotor close to an out side in a radial direction of each harness split roller.
US09227807B2 Sheet processing apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet processing apparatus includes: a conveying roller that conveys a sheet; a lateral registration skew correcting unit that corrects a position in a width direction orthogonal to a sheet conveying direction, of the sheet conveyed by the conveying roller; and a sheet processing portion that performs processing on the sheet conveyed by the conveying roller. A plurality of types of sheet processing portions is replaceable, and the sheet processing apparatus includes a puncher controller that changes an operation of the lateral registration skew correcting unit according to the type of the sheet processing portion.
US09227802B2 Scanner device and multifunction apparatus with supply path, discharge path, and re-supply path integrally formed together
A scanner device including: a scanning path on which a scanning member for scanning an image from a document is disposed; a supply path on which a document is supplied to the scanning path; a discharge path on which a document is discharged after scanning of the document on the scanning path has been completed; and a re-supply path that extended to the supply path from a intersection where the scanning path and the discharge path cross so that a document fed along the discharge path in a direction opposite to a document-feeding direction is re-supplied to the supply path after scanning of one side of the document has been completed, wherein one-side guide portions of the supply path, the discharge path, and the re-supply path are integrally formed.
US09227798B2 Livestock loader and method
An apparatus including a first compartment and a second compartment is disclosed through which livestock animals move. The first compartment includes a first extension that is horizontally extendable and retractable. The second compartment is vertically movable and includes a second extension that is horizontally extendable and retractable. A method includes positioning a first end of an apparatus proximate a doorway of a building that contains a plurality of livestock animals; extending a first extension to the doorway; positioning a vehicle proximate a second end of the apparatus; moving at least one of the livestock animals from the building and into a first compartment; moving the animal from the first compartment to a second compartment; vertically moving the second compartment to a level of a deck of the vehicle; extending a second extension to the deck; and moving the animal from the second compartment onto the vehicle deck.
US09227795B2 Workpieces separating device
A separating device for separating workpieces includes a driving unit, a supporting board, and a moving assembly. The supporting board defines a number of sliding grooves spaced from each other. The moving assembly includes a sliding board slidably assembled to the supporting board, and a plurality of first moving blocks for holding workpieces. The sliding board slides along a first direction and defines two latching holes, each extending along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Each of the first moving blocks extends through the latching holes to be inserted in one of the sliding grooves. The driving unit drives the sliding board to slide along the first direction. The sliding board forces the number of first moving blocks to slide along the number of sliding grooves.
US09227794B2 Methods for transferring discrete articles
The present disclosure is directed to a method of transferring discrete articles from or to a moving carrier member using a transfer assembly. The transfer assembly comprises a frame defining a rotation axis and a transfer member comprising a transfer surface configured to receive one of the discrete articles. The method comprises rotating the transfer member about the rotation axis and maintaining the transfer surface at a substantially constant minimum distance away from the moving carrier member at the point of discrete article transfer.
US09227793B2 System and method for monitoring the condition of a conveyor belt
A system and a method are disclosed for monitoring a condition of a conveyor belt arranged to rotate about at least a motor drive pulley and an idler pulley. A sensor unit can determine at least one sensor signal representing at least one operating variable of the electrical motor. A data processing unit can derive from the sensor signal at least one corresponding time dependent data signal, to detect irregularities in the data signal which indicate that a splice region of the conveyor belt passes the drive pulley and/or the idler pulley, to determine from a change in shape or in frequency of the irregularities, whether the condition of the conveyor belt has changed, and to send a signal which reflects a change in the condition of the conveyor belt to at least one of a display unit, a storage unit and/or a decision making unit.
US09227792B2 Longwall equipment with a hydrostatic tube balance thereon for determining the height position of individual elements of the longwall equipment
A Longwall equipment for mechanical extraction in longwall mining, in particular in underground coal mining, having a face conveyor arranged along the coal face, having an extraction machine which can be displaced along the face conveyor and having shield support units attached to the face conveyor at an angle thereto, is characterized in that, in order to determine the absolute height position of determined elements of the longwall equipment, a liquid-filled hydrostatic tube balance (17) is installed along the coalface (10) on the selected elements (12, 15, 31) of the longwall equipment and is connected to a base station (19) arranged in one of the gate roads (13, 14) and determined precisely in its height as a reference point, wherein pressure sensors (22) are incorporated into the tube conduit (18, 23, 24) of the hydrostatic tube balance (17), distributed over the course of the longwall equipment on individual elements (12, 15, 31) of the longwall equipment, and are connected to a central evaluation and control unit.
US09227785B2 Active control roller top modular conveying assembly
A modular conveying assembly includes active roller control for reducing backline pressure without product to product contact when accumulating products. The conveying assembly includes a first roller belt module having a top surface and at least one first roller axle support extending above the top surface. The first axle support supports at least one roller above the top surface. The at least one roller is rotatably coupled to a rotatably driven drive axle, such that rotation of the drive axle causes rotation of the roller. A clutch including a driven surface fixed to the drive axle engages a driving member to rotatably drive the drive axle and, thus the roller.
US09227783B2 Multi-track helical conveyor
A conveyor for conveying products comprises at least a drivable helically-shaped inner track conveyor member and a drivable helically-shaped outer track conveyor member. The outer track conveyor member surrounds the inner track conveyor member. The pitches of the inner track conveyor member and the outer track conveyor member are different.
US09227782B2 Double skin tank lining with interstitial spacer
A lining system for lining a surface generates a fluid impervious lining and an interstitial space between said lining and said surface. The system includes a layer comprising a flexible material having an adhesive coating on each side thereof, a second layer of flexible material, and a spacing means to generate a gap between the first and second layers, the gap constituting the interstitial space, and a coating, the coating comprising a curable material which cures to form a hard fluid impervious coating.
US09227781B1 Storage tanks using super ellipse geometries
A storage system and method are provided. The storage system may be for storing fluids, and include a first storage tank having an internal first volume defined by one or more exterior sides of the first storage tank being designed to have a super elliptical shape circumscribed by a rectangle or square so that the internal first volume is greater than an internal volume of a storage tank designed to have an elliptical or circular shape circumscribed by the rectangle or the square. The circumscribing rectangle may be a golden rectangle.
US09227780B2 Storage apparatus
Storage apparatus includes a supporting base (11) supporting silos (14) having a lower conical portion (15) and silo port (16) controlled by an outlet knifegate valve (17), and a charging port (20) controlled by an inlet knifegate valve (21). An upper portion (22) of the silo is closed by a domed top (18). The silo ports (16) are manifolded to a common outlet (not shown). A charge manifold (25) interconnects the respective upper charging ports (20) and connects the ports to the cuttings source conduit (26). A pressure/vacuum port (27) is connected via cycle control valve (30) to an ejector assembly (not shown) valved to be able to cycle between a vacuum phase and a pressure phase of about 16 psig using a compressed air source. Control means is selectively operable to control the outlet valve (17), inlet valve (21) and cycle control valve (30).
US09227777B2 Capsule containing nutritional ingredients and method of delivery of a nutritional liquid from the capsule
The invention proposes a capsule (9) for use in a beverage production device, the capsule containing ingredients for producing a nutritional liquid when a liquid is fed into the capsule (9) at an inlet face (8) thereof, the capsule (9) furthermore containing heat sensitive bioactive ingredients such as probiotic microorganisms (21) which are physically separated from the other nutritional ingredients in the capsule.
US09227775B2 Slide opening display and mail package
An economical package including an inner sliding piece assembled inside of one or more outer sleeves, where the inner sliding piece may contain a gift card, loyalty card, product, or promotional messages, and the card, product or messages can be revealed by pulling the inner sliding piece at least partially out of the outer sleeve. The package assembly can provide differentiation, protection, consumer information, and an ability to reuse the package for presentation of the card or information.
US09227773B2 Packing container and cover package
A non-limiting example packing container includes a first member and a second member, and two pieces of covers (contents) which constitute a part of a main body of a game device are stored by the first member and the second member while being arranged vertically. In the packing container, an interval between the two pieces of covers and parts of upper and lower portions of the two pieces of covers are made transparent. Accordingly, if an imitation which imitates the game device is installed into a concave portion which is formed in the rear of the packing container that stores the covers, the imitation can be seen through the parts made transparent, whereby a state like a state that the two pieces of covers are attached to the game device can be seen.
US09227767B2 Package bag and method for filling and packing liquid material to be packed
There are provided a package bag capable of surely preventing stay of ambient air or the like in the package bag and intake thereinto even in the filling by handwork or the like of an operator as well as a method for filing and packing the liquid material to be packed into the package bag. A package bag is characterized by comprising a bag main body made of thin laminate films for packing, a fusion part formed at a position spaced from a bottom portion of the bag main body not forming a nozzle through fusion and extending in a widthwise direction of the bag main body, an insert port for a pipe-like filling nozzle provided in a middle portion of the fusion part, a filling part of one-way function formed between the fusion part and an opening end of the bag main body.
US09227765B1 Packing box of liquid crystal panel
The present invention discloses a packing box of liquid crystal panel. The packing box of liquid crystal panel comprises a box body, on at least two adjacent side walls of the box body respectively being provided with several grooves; the packing box further being provided with an elastic buffer part and a rigid part, the elastic buffer part being provided in the grooves, a first terminal of the elastic buffer part being close to the liquid crystal panel, there being a gap between the inner wall of the groove and a second terminal of the elastic buffer part, the rigid part being mounted on the groove through the position of the gap. In the packing box of liquid crystal panel, the content closely contacts with the packaging material, which avoids the displacement of the content generating secondary impacts during transportation and decreases the damages of the external impacts to the package.
US09227759B2 Synthetic resin bottle
A biaxially stretched, blow molded synthetic resin bottle has a bottom including a sunken bottom portion, and deforms as it draws upward in a direction of the bottle inside and includes a ring groove formed by being successively connected to an inner peripheral edge of a ground contact portion disposed at the foot of an outer peripheral wall of the bottom, a central concave portion disposed at a center of the bottom, and a flat ring portion disposed between an inner peripheral edge of the ring groove and the central concave portion, wherein the sunken bottom portion includes a plurality of short slim ribs disposed at several points of the flat ring portion.
US09227758B2 Auxiliary transport unit and method for use thereof
An auxiliary transport unit is provided in particular for pallets, wherein the pallets include a loading base which, during transport, is oriented substantially horizontally. The auxiliary transport unit has a supporting device which, during transport, extends substantially in the vertical direction. The auxiliary transport unit also includes a connecting device which connects the supporting device to at least one first, lower pallet. The auxiliary transport unit also has a holding device which is connected to the supporting device. The holding device is provided for holding at least one second pallet vertically spaced from the at least one first pallet.
US09227757B1 Shielded pallet
A pallet comprised of a first deck, a second deck, a dampening device and a shield. The first deck includes an interior surface, an exterior surface and an edge. The second deck includes an interior surface. The dampening device located between the interior surface of the first deck and the interior surface of the second deck. The dampening device configured to contract to counteract a compression force when the first deck and the second deck are pressed together and further configured to deform to counteract an expansive force when the first deck and the second deck are pulled apart. The shield having a first planar member adjacent to the exterior surface of the first deck opposite the dampening device and a second planar member extending from the first planar member to the interior surface of the second deck and adjacent to the edge of the first deck.
US09227756B2 Intermodal transport platform
A collapsible intermodal transport platform and methods for its operation are disclosed. The invention comprises first braces that rotate about a mounting point on the frame that supports a cargo loading surface. The first braces are positioned along the platform so as to provide lifting and stacking fitments at the standard overhead crane lifting points when in a lift configuration. The first braces may be rotated inboard down to the loading surface, thereby presenting stacking blocks at the crane lifting points for stacking several platforms together. Second braces attach to the first braces to assist in load distribution. The frame may comprise center feet extensions to further assist in load distribution. Other features and aspects disclosed lend to the invention's low weight and high carrying capacity, as well as its unique load securing features.
US09227755B2 Inner seal with a sub tab layer
A pull-tab sealing member for a container containing an upper laminate forming a pull-tab bonded to a lower laminate capable of being heat sealed to a container's mouth or opening. The upper laminate defines the pull tab wholly within a perimeter or circumference of the seal. The sealing member further includes a sub tab layer or member under the gripping tab for structural support.
US09227750B2 Carton with pour spout
A package comprises a top-sealed gable-top carton, a flowable substance contained in the carton, and a pour spout fitment (72) openable to pour the substance from the carton, the carton including a top closure including a front roof sub-panel (130) carrying and sealed to the fitment (72), the carton also including a front body sub-panel (140), the boundary zone between the roof sub-panel (130) and the front sub-panel (140) comprising an edge protruding into the front sub-panel 140, and the fitment (72) extending to adjacent to that edge. It is thereby possible to provide on a gable-top carton a pour spout fitment having a greater through-flow cross-sectional area than would be the case if the above-mentioned boundary zone were not to protrude into the front sub-panel.
US09227748B2 Metal bottle can
A metal bottle can comprises a mouth part having a curl portion at the end, a neck part having a straight part in parallel to the can axis, a taper-shaped shoulder part, a barrel part, and a bottom part. The metal bottle can is integrally formed from a primitive plate of the thickness (wall thickness T) of 0.48 mm to 0.30 mm by drawing-processed. The metal bottle can has the barrel part with the diameter A of 40 mm to 70 mm, the neck part with the diameter B of 20 mm to 35 mm, the straight portion of the neck part with the length S of 10 mm to 40 mm, the shoulder part with the angle α of 40 degrees to 70 degrees, the mouth part with the wall thickness X of 0.46 mm to 0.33 mm, and straight portion of the neck part with the wall thickness Y of 0.43 mm to 0.30 mm.
US09227746B2 Method and apparatus for manufacturing ophthalmic lenses
A method for manufacturing ophthalmic lenses, e.g. contact lenses, in particular soft contact lenses, comprises the steps of molding in a high volume manufacturing process a plurality of lenses (CL) having different properties, and transferring the respective molded lenses (CL) that have the same properties to a respective intermediate buffer (1;1a) so as to store therein a bulk of lenses (CL) having the same properties.
US09227745B2 Bag making and packaging machine
A bag making and packaging machine forms a first transverse seal portion in a packaging material formed in a tubular shape, fills the packaging material with articles, thereafter further forms a second transverse seal portion to make a bag, and allows the bag to fall, and is equipped with a vibrating mechanism. The first transverse seal portion is formed in a direction perpendicular to a conveyance direction of the packaging material. The vibrating mechanism tilts the packaging material to an outer side of a fall path of the bag and vibrates the packaging material after the packaging material has been filled with the articles and before the second transverse seal portion is formed.
US09227732B2 Electro-thermal ice protection system and method with serial load leveling
An electro-thermal ice protection system includes a controller for managing and controlling electrical power generated to heat and de-ice surfaces, such as aircraft wings. The system is comprised of a number of power control modules (PCMs) and at least one master control unit (MCU). These elements can be stacked together and mounted into rack systems in order to provide scalable organized power distribution for a de-icing and ice protection system. The electro-thermal system can be used with a load leveling system and method capable of controlling switches such that it appears to a generator that the load is constant. Switches can be scheduled such that, ideally, the power load seen by the power source has emissions of no more than one PWM load superpositioned with zero or more constant, non-modulated loads.
US09227731B2 Electrical power transfer system for propeller system
A propeller system for an aircraft includes a propeller assembly rotatable about a central axis and a reduction gearbox operably connected to the propeller assembly via a propeller shaft. An electrical power transfer system is positioned such that the gearbox is located axially between the electrical power transfer system and the propeller assembly. The electrical power transfer system includes a slip ring assembly secured to an oil transfer tube extending to the propeller assembly and a brush block interactive with the slip ring assembly to transfer electrical power to a plurality of lead wires extending from the slip ring assembly to the propeller assembly. The brush block is positioned such that brush block tips of the brush block extend toward the slip ring assembly in a substantially radial direction relative to the central axis of the propeller assembly.
US09227730B2 System and method for air conditioning at least one partial region of an airplane
A system for air conditioning at least one partial region of an aircraft comprises an air providing device for providing air to be supplied to a region of the aircraft to be ventilated at a desired temperature and pressure. A supply air duct is connected at a first end to the air providing device. A second end of the supply air duct is connected to an air inlet which opens near the floor into the aircraft region to be ventilated. A control device is set up to ensure that the air provided by the air providing device enters the aircraft region to be ventilated via the air inlet at such a speed that the air is distributed near the floor in the aircraft region to be ventilated and rises at heat sources present in the aircraft region to be ventilated, and that the air provided by the air providing device enters the aircraft region to be ventilated via the air inlet at such a temperature that a desired ambient temperature is set in the aircraft region to be ventilated.
US09227727B2 Lighting system
A lighting system includes a lighting apparatus provided along one side of an aisle and a specular reflection plate provided along the other side of the aisle to reflect the light emitted from the lighting apparatus toward a region where the lighting apparatus is provided. According to the above configuration, the lighting apparatus can illuminate the region where the lighting apparatus is provided. Therefore, it is possible to effectively illuminate a cabin of an aircraft with less lighting apparatuses as compared to conventional lighting apparatuses which are provided along both sides of the aisle. Moreover, since the number of the lighting apparatuses can be reduced, it is possible to improve fuel efficiency of the aircraft by reducing the total weight of the aircraft.
US09227726B2 Aircraft bird strike prevention
A method comprises continuously discharging a persistent vapor of bird repellant from a non-propulsion apparatus on a flying aircraft into an elevated airspace to substantially cover a runway flight path corridor at a commercial airport to prevent birds from striking subsequent aircraft in the corridor. The discharging automatically begins from a runway at the airport and automatically ends when the corridor is substantially covered.
US09227724B2 Aircraft landing gear
An aircraft landing gear having a strut having an upper portion for mechanically coupling to an aircraft and a lower portion movably mounted with respect to the upper portion. A bogie beam is pivotally coupled to the lower strut. A bogie control linkage is mechanically coupled to the bogie at a first connection point, and to the strut at a second connection point. The bogie control linkage has: an actuator including a locking system that inhibits actuation of the actuator; a sensor linkage mechanically coupled to the lower strut and arranged to change between first and second conditions in accordance with movement of the upper strut relative to the lower strut; and an actuator control linkage arranged to operate the locking system when the sensor linkage is in the first condition and arranged not to operate the locking system when the sensor linkage is in the second condition.
US09227723B2 Mechanism for variable adjustment of blades for a system of contra-rotating propellers, and a system of contra-rotating propellers comprising at least one such mechanism
A mechanism for adjusting pitch of blades of a propeller of a system of contra-rotating propellers for a turbomachine, wherein each blade moves around a radial axis. The mechanism includes a linear actuator, a structure to transform movement imparted by the linear actuator into rotation of each of the blades in a synchronized manner around their radial axis, the structure including a bracket of longitudinal axis formed of a central ring, an outer ring, and multiple radial arms rigidly connected to the central ring and to the outer ring. The central ring can be subject to actuation of the linear actuator, and the central ring and the outer ring are positioned in two separate planes, orthogonal to the longitudinal axis, such that the bracket is shaped as a truncated cone.
US09227716B2 Rudder propeller
A rudder propeller including a drive shaft and a propeller shaft that can be driven by the drive shaft by an angular drive and a planetary gear that can be located on the propeller shaft and including a sun gear that is connected to the angular drive via a coupling, a fixed ring gear and planet gears that revolve between the sun gear and ring gear and that are mounted on a planet carrier. The planet carrier can be secured against torque to the propeller shaft and the coupling between the angular drive and the sun gear can be designed as a double cardanic, rotationally-fixed flexible coupling, in such a way that radial and angular displacements of the sun gear in relation to the angular drive can be compensated.
US09227715B1 Marine propulsion system gear case assembly
A gear case assembly for a marine propulsion system has a gear case having a first end adapted to connect the gear case to a remainder of the marine propulsion system, and a second end disposed opposite the first end. A driveshaft is disposed at least in part in the gear case. A propeller shaft, operatively connected to an end of the driveshaft, is disposed at an angle thereto. The end of the driveshaft and at least a portion of the propeller shaft are disposed in a transmission chamber defined in the gear case. An expansion port is defined in the gear case. A container, defining an expansion chamber, is disposed outside the gear case. The expansion port fluidly communicates the transmission chamber with the expansion chamber. An outboard engine is also disclosed.
US09227710B2 Cylindrical underwater vehicle with vertical end plate attached to partially movable rudder
A cylindrical underwater vehicle with a vertical end plate attached to a partially movable rudder, including a vertical end plate which is formed in a longitudinal direction of the underwater vehicle and is mounted on a circumference thereof so as to improve a control force with respect to the underwater vehicle. The cylindrical underwater vehicle with a vertical end plate attached to a partially movable rudder, including a fixed plate formed to radially extend, and a movable plate, a front end of which is rotatably mounted to the rear of the fixed plate, includes a first vertical end plate which is formed to have a regular width in a longitudinal direction of the underwater vehicle at an upper end portion of the movable plate and is mounted perpendicular to the movable plate.
US09227706B2 Marker and recovery device
A marker and recovery device has a body for securing to a torso and an arch secured to the body at spaced locations. The arch is extendable from a stored to a deployed condition. In the deployed condition, the arch extends from the torso of the wearer to function as a visible marker. The arch facilitates recovery of the wearer.
US09227704B2 Support system for a paddle board
A support system is configured to increase buoyancy and stability of a paddle board having a central axis running from bow to stern. The support system includes a port side float connected to the paddle board such that the port side float is parallel to the central axis. A starboard side float is connected to the paddle board such that the starboard side float is parallel to the central axis. The port side float and the starboard side float increase lateral stability on the paddle while reducing draft on the paddle board making it safer to float in shallow water.
US09227698B2 Open bow inflatable boat with removable frame
Disclosed herein is a partially inflatable vessel having an open region at the bow and optionally at the stern of the vessel. A removable covering such as a tarp is provided at the bow region to allow access through the open region when the tarp is removed. The hull tarp covers the bow region to improve stability and operation of the vessel when moving through water at significant speeds.
US09227692B2 Hydraulic bicycle component system
A hydraulic bicycle component system includes a hydraulic component and a first seal. The hydraulic component has a fluid path filled with hydraulic fluid. The hydraulic component is configured to be coupled to a hydraulic hose. The first seal is arranged to seal an end of the fluid path of the hydraulic component.
US09227681B2 Bicycle seat
Among other things, a structure supports the ischial tubularities of a user of a device to which the structure is attached, while gravity is applying a downward force on the ischial tubularities and the user's legs are engaged in motion during which forces are being applied that tend to cause the user's respective ischial tubularities to move relative to a frame of the device. The structure includes two buttock supports having surfaces against which the bottom surfaces of the user's respective buttocks bear during the motion. A mechanism connects the two buttock supports to the frame of the device to permit simultaneously (1) free motion of the two buttock supports (a) up and down relative to a frame of the device and (b) back and forth relative to the frame of the device and (2) free variation of the angular orientations of the bottom surfaces of the user's buttocks back and forth, relative to a hypothetical horizontal plane that is fixed relative to the frame of the device.
US09227678B2 Locking wheel rim cover
A locking wheel rim cover is described for attachment to the outer face of a spare wheel rim having a given diameter, an outer face and log openings. The cover includes a circular rim plate having a diameter substantial the same as the diameter of the wheel rim, an inner face and an outer face; a locking member extending inwardly from the inner face of the rim plate; a first attachment member extending inwardly from the inner face of the rim plate; and an attachment bracket mountable on the outer face of the wheel rim, the bracket including a locking member opening to receive the locking member, a second attachment member connectable with the first attachment member and inwardly extending adapters sized for insertion into the wheel lug openings.
US09227677B2 Motor vehicle with an underbody trim
An underbody trim for the rear-end region of a motor vehicle conceals a rear exhaust muffler. For the purposes of cooling the rear exhaust muffler, an air inlet is provided in the underbody trim. The air inlet is arranged in a region in which, while the motor vehicle is traveling, a pressure is higher at the underside of the underbody trim than the region of the floor panel arranged thereabove. Cooling ambient air is thus conducted into the region of the rear exhaust muffler with low flow losses.
US09227676B2 Rear spoiler arrangement for motor vehicle
A rear spoiler arrangement (2) for a vehicle has at least one rear spoiler (6), that can be moved in the vertical direction of the vehicle between a rest position and a functional position. The rear spoiler arrangement (2) is placed on a rear spoiler support (5) and substantially follows the shape profile in the rear area of the vehicle body when the rear spoiler arrangement (2) is in the rest position. Rear light units (4) of the vehicle are integrated into lateral end regions (3) of the rear spoiler support (5) and/or of the rear spoiler (6).
US09227673B2 Vehicle pillar
A pillar for a vehicle includes a translucent polymer composite having chopped reinforcing fibers incorporated therein. The pillar also includes a truss embedded in the translucent polymer composite and disposed substantially along a length of the pillar. The truss and the translucent polymer composite share a loading condition applied to the pillar. The pillar is to be disposed between a lower body portion of the vehicle and a roof of the vehicle to support the roof.
US09227672B2 Composite vehicle body and manufacturing method thereof and vehicle body structure using the same
A composite vehicle body panel includes a fiber reinforced plastic panel and a steel flange disposed in the fiber reinforced plastic panel and having an edge protruding outward from the fiber reinforced plastic panel beyond an outer edge of the fiber reinforced plastic panel. The composite vehicle body panel can be used in vehicle structures manufactured on standard vehicle productions lines, thereby easing vehicle manufacturing, improving productivity, and providing increased rigidity to the vehicle bodies. A method of manufacturing the composite vehicle body panel and a vehicle structure using the panel are also provided.
US09227670B2 Mount for an electrical or electronic component in an engine compartment of a motor vehicle
An electrical or electronic component (3) of a motor vehicle is mounted in an engine compartment of the motor vehicle by suspending the component (3) from a suspension cross-brace (1) and connecting the component (3) on a motor vehicle splashboard that separates the engine compartment from a passenger compartment. Such a mount permits a relatively heavy and relatively large electrical or electronic component to be accommodated in the engine compartment and securely mounted there.
US09227668B2 Joint structure for members of different kinds of metal
A Joint structure for members of different kinds of metals comprises a first member formed from a metal sheet, and a second member formed from a metal sheet having a coefficient of thermal expansion greater than that of the metal sheet for the first member, wherein the first member and the second member are superimposed on each other and spot-joined together at a plurality of positions in a first direction, and the second member has a bead portion extending along a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, at a position between adjacent ones of the spot-joined points.
US09227666B2 Vehicle frame structure
A vehicle frame structure includes a pair of hat-shaped panels that form a portion of a vehicle, each hat-shaped panel having a hat-shaped cross-section, the pair of hat-shaped panels facing each other and forming a closed sectional portion; a partition panel that is sandwiched by the pair of hat-shaped panels, and divides an inside of the closed sectional portion; and a laser welded portion where all of four or more plates including the pair of hat-shaped panels and the partition panel are overlapped and welded together at an identical position by laser welding.
US09227665B2 Motor vehicle with modular body
A motor vehicle is provided that has a central front wall arranged between engine compartment and passenger cell and lateral front walls, each of which comprises first contact points for fastening to the central front wall and second contact points for fastening to a lateral sill structure. Of the lateral front walls, multiple models are provided, which differ with respect to the spacing between first and second contact points measured in transverse direction of the motor vehicle body.
US09227659B2 Vehicle lane control using differential torque
Methods and systems are provided for implementing a lane control feature for vehicles having a passenger side, a driver side, one or more wheels on the passenger side, and one or more wheels on the driver side. A sensor is configured to obtain information pertaining to operation of a vehicle with respect to a lane of a roadway. The processor is coupled to the sensor, and is configured to at least facilitate determining, using the information, whether the lane control feature is activated, and providing differential torque between one or more driver side wheels and one or more passenger side wheels when the lane control feature is activated.
US09227658B2 Rotary electric machine control apparatus having abnormality detection function
A rotary electric machine control apparatus controls driving of a motor, which generates assist torque in accordance with steering torque inputted by steering operation on a steering wheel. An abnormality detection part acquires a voltage detection value related to an operation parameter, which varies when the motor is being supplied with electric power. The abnormality detection part checks whether the voltage detection value is abnormal based on a variation of the voltage detection value over a predetermined period under a condition that the electric power is supplied to the motor and the steering member is being operated. It is thus possible to determine abnormality of the voltage detection value related to the operation parameter, which varies when the motor is in operation with electric power supply, without erroneous detection.
US09227657B2 Vehicle steering system
In a vehicle steering system configured to reduce the burden placed on an operator when steered wheels are returned to a neutral position, a knob for operating a steering wheel is turnably attached to the steering wheel. A switch is attached to the knob. A steered system ECU includes a target steered angle setting unit. The target steered angle setting unit changes a target steered angle to a steered angle corresponding to a position closer to the neutral position of the steered wheels when the switch is turned on in a state where the turning amount of the steering wheel from a turning angle of the steering wheel corresponding to the neutral position of the steered wheels is within a prescribed range.
US09227655B2 Electrical power assisted steering device
An electrical power assisted steering device has a lower shaft, an upper shaft module, a pre-torsion module and a torsion bar. The upper shaft module has an upper shaft, a detecting unit mounted around the upper shaft, and an assembling space annularly formed between the detecting unit and the pushing portions. The pre-torsion module is mounted in the assembling space and has a maintaining unit mounted around the upper shaft and in the assembling space, multiple sliding blocks mounted in the maintaining unit and respectively abutting the upper shaft, and multiple springs mounted in the maintaining unit and respectively abutting between the maintaining unit and the sliding blocks. The torsion bar is connected between the upper shaft and the lower shaft.
US09227652B2 Rack and pinion wear compensation
An automotive steering system includes a steering assembly including a rack and a pinion, and a rack bearing configured to contact the rack, the rack bearing disposed in a rack bearing bore of a housing. The system also includes a wear compensation assembly in fluid communication with a rack bearing bore cavity disposed within the rack bearing, the wear compensation assembly configured to draw fluid into the rack bearing bore cavity in response to movement of the rack bearing within the rack bearing bore.
US09227651B2 Steering column
A steering column for preventing separation of inner column 14a and outer column 15a is provided in the state before assembly in a vehicle body or in the state after a secondary collision without requiring additional components. The steering column includes a long engaging hole 26 extending in the axial direction and provided in the upper portion of the front section of the outer column 15a. An engaging piece 28 is integrally formed with the upper portion of the rear section of the inner column 14a, and this engaging piece 28 is moved into the long engaging hole 26 so as to be able to displace along the long engaging hole 26. When assembled in a vehicle body, as the engaging piece 28 is displaced along the long engaging hole 26, both the inner column and outer column 14a, 15a are allowed to displace relative to each other within a telescopic adjustment range. In the state before being assembled in the vehicle body, the engagement between the engaging piece 28 and the front end edge of the long engaging hole 26 prevent the inner column and outer column 14a, 15a from coming apart in the axial direction.
US09227648B2 Compactible stroller
A collapsible stroller includes a mobile base and a juvenile seat coupled to the mobile base. The mobile base includes a foldable frame and wheels.
US09227646B2 Shopping cart with removable basket assembly
A method of making a shopping cart includes forming a frame capable of supporting a plurality of basket assembly types, selecting from the plurality of basket assembly types a first basket assembly defining a first basket assembly type; and connecting the first basket assembly to the frame.
US09227645B2 Modular customizable cart
A modular cart that includes a main cart, a first modular cart frame, and a second modular cart frame is described. The main cart further includes a handle end with a first base component that is mechanically coupled to at least one caster. The main cart also includes a first bar disposed on a distal end of the first base component that extends to a second base component, in which the first bar is orthogonal to the second base component and the first base component. A first bay perimeter is bounded by the first base component, the first bar and the second base component. The main cart further includes a second bay perimeter is bounded by a second base component, a second bar and a third base component.
US09227643B1 Wheeled transport for slow cooker
An apparatus for transporting a container includes a lower enclosure adapted to accept and retain the container, an insulating lining disposed on an inner surface of the lower enclosure, an upper enclosure hingedly affixed to the lower enclosure and adapted to close upon and seal the lower enclosure, a handle assembly attached to the lower enclosure, and at least one pair of wheels operatively attached to a bottom surface of said lower enclosure, wherein the handle assembly is selectively movable between a deployed position and stowed position.
US09227639B1 System and method for decoupling a vehicle system
A system and method for separating a vehicle system into separate vehicle segments, separately moving the vehicle segments, and re-connecting the vehicle segments without initiation of a brake penalty application are provided. The system and method communicate a suspend command signal between vehicle segments to suspend operations of vehicles in a cooperative mode. The vehicles in the vehicle system are decoupled into plural separate vehicle segments. The system and method also move one or more of the vehicle segments separately from one or more other vehicle segments. The vehicle segments are reconnected to form the vehicle system, and the system and method communicate a reconnect command signal between the vehicle segments to resume operations in the cooperative mode, without incurring a penalty brake application of the vehicle system.
US09227635B1 Method and system of assisting a driver of a vehicle
A method of assisting a driver of a vehicle. A road to be driven by the driver is identified using a position determination unit. A parameter is selected to assist a driver of the vehicle in driving a segment of the road. The parameter includes information on the location of a boundary along the road and a preferred trajectory to be driven along the road. A controller determines whether a current trajectory of the vehicle while travelling the road is deviating from the preferred trajectory of the vehicle along the road. A feedback operation is provided to assist the driver in guiding the vehicle nearer to the preferred trajectory based on the selected parameter.
US09227631B2 Method for safely parking a vehicle in an emergency situation
In a method for safely parking a vehicle, it is checked whether an emergency situation is present, and the vehicle is driven by the driver assistance system to a road shoulder upon recognition of an emergency situation. In controlling the driving operation, information is requested from an external database and taken into account by the driver assistance system.
US09227626B2 Motor assistance for a hybrid vehicle based on predicted driving range
A method of providing assistance to an internal combustion engine for a vehicle using an electric motor coupled to the engine is provided. The method comprises predicting a driving range based on historical driving range data. The historical driving range data includes one or more distances that the vehicle was driven during one or more previous driving cycles. The method further comprises selectively operating the motor to provide assistance to the engine at predetermined operating conditions of the engine. The assistance provided to the engine at one or more of the predetermined operating conditions is determined based at least in part on the predicted driving range.
US09227625B2 Method for operating a driving system, in particular, of a motor vehicle
A method for operating a driving system of a motor vehicle, in particular, the driving system having an internal combustion engine and at least one electric motor, and during warm-up of the internal combustion engine, the latter being loaded with a specifiable torque; and the at least one electric motor generating a torque at least at times, to unload or load the internal combustion engine. An actual torque of the internal combustion engine is compared to a specifiable first setpoint torque of the internal combustion engine; a difference of the actual torque from the first setpoint torque being formed; and a time integral being formed over the difference formed; and a fault being detected in the warm-up of the internal combustion engine, as a function of the time integral formed.
US09227622B2 Hybrid vehicle control for traveling over a grade
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle having an engine includes automatically stopping the engine in response to vehicle power demand dropping below currently available electrical power, and automatically starting the engine when vehicle power demand is at a first offset below currently available electrical power to reduce a time delay for starting the engine and increase a currently available vehicle power to move the vehicle up a grade in response to receiving a signal indicating a positive grade. A hybrid vehicle includes an engine, an electric machine, and a controller. The controller is configured to control starting/stopping of the engine in response to a first driver demand when receiving a signal indicative of a road grade angle exceeding a corresponding threshold and in response to a second driver demand otherwise.
US09227621B2 Hybrid drive
A hybrid drive for a motor vehicle and a method for the control thereof, the hybrid drive including a combustion engine; and a controller configured to determine an actual power demand required by the combustion engine during a present driving situation of the motor vehicle; determine a difference between a predefined power demand model of the combustion engine and the determined actual power demand; and control the combustion engine as a function of speed of the motor vehicle based on the determined difference.
US09227612B2 Brake system and method
A hydraulic system for an aircraft includes a brake operation device, a pressure supply, a reservoir, a shut-off valve, and a wheel brake. The shut-off valve is in fluid communication with and is disposed between the pressure supply and the brake valve. The shut-off valve can include a poppet, a first valve seat and a second valve seat. Movement of the poppet is controlled by operation of the brake operation device. The poppet is movable between a first position where the poppet acts against the first valve seat and a second position where the poppet acts against the second valve seat. In the first position, fluid flow is blocked between the pressure supply and the brake valve through the shut-off valve. In the second position, fluid flow is allowed between the pressure supply and the brake valve through the shut-off valve. The wheel brake is in fluid communication with and downstream from the shut-off valve.
US09227609B2 Hydraulic assembly for a vehicle brake system
A hydraulic assembly for a vehicle brake system comprising at least two brake circuits and wheel brakes associated with the brake circuits. The hydraulic assembly comprises a pressure generator for generating a central hydraulic pressure for the brake circuits independently of the driver at least in the case of service braking initiated by the driver. Furthermore, at least one pressure adjusting device is provided for adjusting for each individual brake circuit the central hydraulic pressure that is generated by the pressure generator independently of the driver.
US09227607B1 Apparatus, method and system for monitoring towed vehicles in a tractor-trailer vehicle
Various examples of a controller, method and system for monitoring a tractor-trailer vehicle train are disclosed. In one example a tractor controller is manually-initiated or a user-initiated tractor controller and includes an electrical control port for receiving an electrical sync signal and an electrical start signal, and a communications port for receiving data. A processing unit of the tractor controller includes control logic and is in communication with the electrical control port. The control logic is capable of receiving a data signal at the communications port which includes a time value and a unique identification which corresponds to the towed vehicle in response to the electrical start signal. At a predetermined response time, the tractor controller determines the position of the towed vehicle in the tractor-trailer vehicle train based on the data received from the towed vehicles.
US09227605B2 Vehicle state calculating device and vehicle control device
An actual slip ratio of a wheel is estimated from a slip ratio speed of a wheel calculated according to a running state of a vehicle based on relationship between a slip ratio of the wheel of the vehicle and the slip ratio speed of the wheel set in advance. Typically, the actual slip ratio is estimated supposing that the slip ratio of the wheel calculated according to the running state of the vehicle, when a change rate of the slip ratio speed becomes larger than a predetermined value set in advance, is a reference slip ratio determined in advance according to the relationship between the slip ratio and the slip ratio speed set in advance. Therefore, it is possible to improve control accuracy when controlling a state of the vehicle by decreasing an effect of operation by a driver and a road surface, for example.
US09227602B2 Disc brake for a commercial vehicle
A disc brake for a commercial vehicle includes a brake caliper that straddles a brake disc, a brake application device, arranged in the brake caliper, for pressing brake pads against the brake disc. Two parallel, spaced-apart adjusting spindles are mounted in a rotatable manner via a corresponding thread, in a bridge of the brake application device. A wear adjusting device is arranged in the brake caliper and compensates for a wear-related change in the clearance between the brake pad and the brake disc by axially moving the adjusting spindles. A synchronizing device includes a traction drive mechanism which allows the two adjusting spindles to be synchronously rotated. The fraction drive mechanism has a traction mechanism that meshes in a force transmitting manner with drive gears which are effectively connected to the adjusting spindles for conjoint rotation therewith. Each drive gear includes at least one form-fitting element which engages with an outer axial guide of the associated adjusting spindle.
US09227594B2 Resistance-based catalytic converter protection systems and configurations
A catalytic converter protection system that includes a controller, a catalytic converter having a housing, and a shorting element that has two terminals and is coupled to the housing. The system also includes a connector having an internal resistor. The connector is electrically coupled to the controller and the two terminals. The controller monitors resistance of the internal resistor to determine continuity between the connector and the shorting element. The controller may activate an alarm element with a loss in continuity between the terminals and the shorting element.
US09227593B2 Anchor plate mounting structure of vehicle seatbelt
An anchor plate mounting structure of a vehicle seatbelt includes an anchor plate that is provided on a mounting portion provided on a surrounding portion of a vehicle seat, and has a belt connecting portion to which an end portion of a lap belt of the vehicle seatbelt, the lap belt corresponding to a waist of an occupant, is fastened; a fastening portion that is provided in a position away from the belt connecting portion, and by which the anchor plate is fastened to the mounting portion; and a rotation-stopping portion that is provided in a position away from both the belt connecting portion and the fastening portion, and by which the anchor plate engages with a mounting portion side. An alignment direction of the belt connecting portion and the fastening portion intersects with an alignment direction of the fastening portion and the rotation-stopping portion.
US09227588B2 Steering wheel
The present invention aims to provide a steering wheel in which a decorative member is easily mounted and fixed to a steering main body without a need to employ fixing parts such as screws, and which is capable of effectively absorbing an impact by appropriately deforming the decorative member at the time of input of a load. The steering wheel of the present invention has: a plurality of engaging fixed units by which the decorative member is mounted and fixed to the steering main body's side via a fixing unit, and demounting of the fixing unit is restrained at the time of deformation of the decorative member; and an engaging unit which is arranged on a site configured to produce a bending deformation of the decorative member, and by which demounting is disallowed to be restrained at the time of deformation of the decorative member.
US09227586B2 Method and system for controlling at least one triggering element for passenger protection means
In a method for controlling a triggering element for passenger protection arrangement, a first connection is established from an energy source to the triggering element via a high-side control circuit, and a second connection is established from the at least one triggering element to ground via a low-side control circuit, and an ignition current is regulated to a predefined nominal value. The ignition current is continuously detected and compared with a predefined first threshold value, first phases being determined in which the ignition current falls below the first threshold value after reaching the nominal value, and second phases being determined in which the ignition current again reaches the nominal value after falling below the first threshold value. The control rate is increased if the number of alternations between the ignition current phases reaches a predefined second threshold value.
US09227585B1 Movable vehicle bumper
A vehicle bumper system, comprises a first bracket fixedly mounted to a bumper. A second bracket is fixedly mounted to a vehicle frame horn, the second bracket including at least one vertical slot. At least one bolt is inserted through an opening in the first bracket and the at least one slot.
US09227584B2 Support device
In various embodiments, a support device is provided for at least one covering element, in particular of a bumper device of a motor vehicle having at least one support body, on which at least one covering element can be arranged or is arranged, and having at least one support unit, which can be fixed or is fixed to the support body and to a vehicle structure or an impact device, which supports the support body when a load acting on the support body is less than a defined load and which releases the support body for a movement when the load acting on the support body exceeds the defined load.
US09227583B2 Shock absorbing apparatus for vehicle
A shock absorbing apparatus for a vehicle may include a first coil provided in a bumper of the vehicle, a second coil provided on a vehicle body and facing the first coil, and a control unit applying voltage to generate a repulsive force between the first and second coils when a change in voltage may be detected by a movement of the first coil in an event of a vehicle collision, wherein an electric current flows between the control unit and the first and second coils.
US09227579B1 Hybrid wireless-wired architecture based on power lines for intra-vehicular communication
A hybrid vehicle communications network including a combination of wired and wireless ECUs and wired and wireless peripherals. A communications backbone, either a CAN bus or a powerline, is electrically coupled to each of the ECUs. The wireless peripherals provide wireless signals to all of the wireless ECUs and each wireless ECU provides data messages on the backbone based on the signals received from the wireless peripherals to be received by a target ECU. Also, one or more of the ECUs puts messages on the backbone to be transmitted wirelessly by all of the wireless ECUs to be received by a wireless peripheral.
US09227578B2 Washer-retaining bracket configuration
The present invention provides a bracket configuration for retaining a washer within a washer case which has an opening for inserting the bracket therethrough so that the washer case is mounted to the bracket from above the washer. The bracket configuration specifically includes a hole configured to dispose the washer thereon and insert a bolt therethrough, and a rib formed along an edge of the opening so as to prevent or protect the washer from deviation or disconnection via a clearance gap created between the opening and the bracket.
US09227577B2 Acoustic insulation device for mobile vehicle
Provided is an acoustic insulation device for a mobile vehicle in which sound transmitted to the exterior of the vehicle body is blocked by being reflected or diffracted by acoustic insulation bodies provided upright to the vehicle body; and the amount of noise that an observer or local residents are subjected to is further reduced. Movement of a mobile vehicle generates noise in, and in the vicinity of, a power collector or a similar device provided upright on the roof (3) of the vehicle. Acoustic insulation bodies (1L), (2L), (1R), (2R) are provided upright on the roof (3), and block noise travelling directly ahead. The noise is diffracted or reflected by the acoustic insulation bodies (1L), (2L), (1R), (2R), and moves so as to be transmitted to the vehicle exterior. However, a branched, blade-shaped acoustic insulation body (1LB) provided to the acoustic insulation body (2L), or branched acoustic insulation bodies (1RB1), (1RB2) provided to the acoustic insulation body (2R), act on the diffracted or reflected noise to block sound, and therefore makes it possible to provide an acoustic insulation device for a mobile vehicle in which transmission to the outside of the vehicle body is minimized and the resulting noise is reduced.
US09227574B1 Truck bed storage device
A truck bed storage device including a back support having a right end, a left end, a top side, and a bottom side. A bottom support having a top surface and a bottom surface, each of the top surface and the bottom surface having a front edge and a rear edge. The rear edge of the top surface of the bottom support is continuously disposed on the bottom side of the back support from proximal the right end to proximal the left end. A plurality of a pair of ladder hooks wherein each pair comprises a forwardly facing ladder hook and a rearwardly facing ladder hook. A bottom edge of each of the forwardly facing ladder hooks disposed within the top side of the back support. A bottom edge of each of the rearwardly facing ladder hooks disposed within the top surface of the bottom support.
US09227572B2 Container
A container for flowers and other plant parts as well as other items, and adapted for use in, inter alia, motor vehicles. The container can further include a ring such as a detachable grooved ring for holding aromatic substances and to prevent water from splashing out of the container.
US09227563B2 Backward movement indicator apparatus for a vehicle
A backward movement indicator apparatus is provided for a vehicle having an alert device. The backward movement indicator apparatus comprises an image capture device arranged to capture image data which is representative of objects in vicinity of the vehicle. The backward movement apparatus further comprises an electronic controller arranged to process the captured image data to provide a signal which is indicative of the vehicle moving backwards.
US09227562B2 Vehicle rim alert system and method
There is disclosed an improved illuminating vehicle wheel cover system that remotely activates a plurality of lights about a vehicle wheel in either a solid or flashing pattern. The lights can be in multiple color pairs and used for aesthetics or to indicate an emergency situation. The remote can be synchronized to the key fob of the vehicle and/or wirelessly connect to a preset medical emergency facility or the nearest facility geographically.
US09227560B2 Vehicle operating device
A cancelling drive member includes a biasing cam portion having a first biasing contact portion and a second biasing contact portion formed therein. A deflectable spring member that biases the cancelling drive member forward is provided. If the cancelling drive member rotates, an elastic pressure portion of the deflectable spring member is brought into contact with the first biasing contact portion. Thus, a forward biasing force and a returning force for rotation are effectively given from the deflectable spring member to the cancelling drive member.
US09227556B2 Lighting control system and method for a motor vehicle
A lighting control system and a lighting control method to implement, in an automotive vehicle, external running lights in different available lighting configurations are provided. The lighting control method includes detecting at least one environment parameter, selecting among the different available lighting configurations and depending on the parameter, which lighting configurations can be implemented, depending on the parameter, defining in which order the selected lighting configurations are implemented when an input device is manually actuated, detecting a manual actuation on the input device, depending on a motion of the input device or a motion on the input device, implementing at least one lighting configuration that is chosen among the selected lighting configurations according to the implementation order.
US09227555B2 Adaptive external vehicle illumination system
An asymmetric geometry headlamp for vehicular use is built as a multifaceted three dimensional body which has multiple light emitting devices (LEDs and/or laser emitters) installed on its angled facets, hence forming a multipurpose illumination apparatus within a single assembly which is designed to provide; a low beam with a wide illuminated area covering 2 PiSteradians, a high beam all position and signaling lights. A microprocessor based system runs real time, continuously adaptive control routines for day and night conditions and provides the electric signals necessary for the independent control of the luminous intensity, direction and color spectrum to each facet of the headlamp's LEDs (light emitting diodes) and for the high beam. Multiple photo-sensors, CCD or CMOS video cameras, position encoders and accelerometers provide the feedback signals used in the automation of all lighting functions in a system designed to completely replace the manual actuation of lights on vehicles.
US09227545B1 Self-propelled dump trailer with separator gate
A self-propelled dump trailer comprises a frame, a first wheel driven by an engine, a second wheel, a steering mechanism, and a dump bed that may have its front end elevated by a lifting mechanism. The frame includes a coupler so the dump trailer can be selectively coupled to a vehicle and uncoupled from the vehicle. Further, the dump bed includes a rear gate and a separator gate that divides the dump bed into two sections, wherein the separator gate is operable to place the dump bed into a first dumping position and a second dumping position. As such, the forward section of the dump bed acts as a counterbalance during a dumping operation.
US09227543B2 Textile structure with improved backing
A textile structure is provided which comprises a backing of at least a first plurality of fibers and a second plurality of fibers, wherein the first plurality of fibers have a first fiber denier and the second plurality of fibers have a second fiber denier different than the first fiber denier. A method of providing a slip resistant covering to overlie a floor pan carpet of a motor vehicle is provided comprising overlying the carpet with an accessory mat having an underlying backing comprising at least a first plurality of fibers and a second plurality of fibers, wherein the first plurality of fibers have a first fiber denier and the second plurality of fibers have a second fiber denier different than the first fiber denier, and wherein the underlying backing of the accessory mat is configured to be in direct contact with the floor pan carpet.
US09227538B2 Motor-vehicle armrest
The invention relates to an armrest for a vehicle seat, comprising an armrest body (11) that together with a base (15) forms a pivot joint and can be pivoted through a pivot angle (α) between a stowed position and a use position, wherein at least one damper (17a, 17b) is provided to damp the motion of the armrest body (11).The invention characterized in that the armrest (10) has a control device (18a, 18b) that actuates the damper (17a, 17b) within at least one portion (β, y) of the pivot angle.
US09227534B2 Seat apparatus for a child's ride-on vehicle
A seat member for use with a child's scooter vehicle for preventing the unintended flipping over of the scooter. The seat member having a body portion having opposing top and bottom surfaces and front and back surfaces. The seat member includes a generally planar seat surface on the top surface of the body portion and a projection member provided on the top back surface of the body portion. At least a portion of the projection member extends into the generally planar seat surface configured to prevent a user from leaning too far backwards on the seat member thus preventing the unintended flipping over of the scooter.
US09227533B2 Recliner
A recliner has a ratchet and a guide assembled together so as to be rotatable relative to each other, and a pawl supported by the guide in a circumferential direction. The pawl is adapted to inhibit rotational movement of the ratchet relative to the guide when moved to be pushed radially outwards. The pawl is supported by guide walls formed in the guide, and the guide walls are located at circumferentially opposite sides of the pawl. Each guide wall has a recessed part (weak portion) formed at a location spaced in the circumferential direction apart from a contact face of the guide wall which is in contact with the pawl. The recessed part is adapted to undergo local stress concentration and plastic deformation due to pressing force received from the pawl when a large load that causes the pawl to undergo forced deformation in the circumferential direction is applied.
US09227530B2 Vehicle seat
A vehicle seat with a height adjustable seat bottom, includes a side frame (30) which constitutes left and right frames of the seat bottom, a linkage configured to render a height of the side frame adjustable, and an operation knob assembly (10) including an operation knob (12) for adjustment of the height of the side frame (30). The operation knob assembly (10) includes a fixing portion (15) protruding toward the side frame (30) and being fixed to the side frame (30) in a position inwardly of the operation knob (12) with respect to a direction of an axis (11) of rotation of the operation knob (12).
US09227528B2 Seat slide apparatus for vehicle
A seat slide apparatus for a vehicle includes a tower rail, an upper rail, a memory base arranged above a bottom wall portion of the lower rail, a restriction piece holding the memory base so that the memory base is restricted from moving, a memory pin attached to the memory base in a manner that advance and retract of the memory pin relative to the memory base is allowed, the memory pin engages with the lower rail in a protruding state, the memory pin disengages in a retracted state, an interlocking mechanism pushing a lock member and the memory pin in a forward-folded state of a seatback, and a holding member holding the protruding state of the memory pin and allowing the memory base to move.
US09227527B2 Assisted rescue system
An assisted rescue system to extract a seatbelt harnessed person from a vehicle. The system comprises a seatbelt harness and seat liner which together form a sling. The seatbelt harness is connected at anchor points with a releasable securing mechanism that is operable with a single release action.
US09227521B2 Vehicle charger system with safety guardian
A safety guardian is operable to facilitate notifying an Electronic Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) system whether a vehicle charging system is ready to accept energy. The safety guardian may be configured to facilitate control of a vehicle interface used to provide a reference voltage to the EVSE reflective of whether the charging system is ready to accept energy. The guardian may control the vehicle interface in the absence of a suitable control signal from the vehicle charging system in order to ensure the EVSE is notified when the vehicle charging system is not ready to accept energy.
US09227520B2 Electric vehicle charging device
The purpose is to provide an electric vehicle charging device capable of preventing arc discharge when disconnecting a power supply connector and a vehicle-side connector. An electric vehicle charging device provided with: a power supply connector (3) for supplying electrical energy from outside the vehicle; a vehicle-side connector (2) for connecting to the power supply connector (3) and positioned in the vehicle; a spring (34) for generating repulsive force in the direction in which the power supply connector (3) and the vehicle-side connector (2) separate; and an engaging part (32) for detecting the disconnection of the power supply connector (3) and the vehicle-side connector (2); wherein the spring (34) generates repulsive force in the direction in which the power supply connector (3) and the vehicle-side connector (2) separate when the engaging part (32) detects that the power supply connector (3) and the vehicle-side connector (2) have disconnected.
US09227519B2 Method and system for communication between a vehicle and a charging station for locking and unlocking mechanical charging cable coupling
A method for communicating between an electric vehicle and a charging station for electrically charging at least one energy storage device of the electric vehicle. The electric vehicle is connected to the charging station during the charging process by a lockable mechanical coupling between a terminal of charging cable connected to the vehicle and a terminal of the charging station. Charging current is fed from the charging station through the charging cable. Information is transferred in the course of the charging process based on a communication between the electric vehicle and the charging station. The information includes a signal transmitted from the electric vehicle to the charging station for locking and/or unlocking the mechanical coupling. The signal triggers the locking and/or unlocking of the mechanical coupling between the terminal of the charging cable and the terminal at the charging station.
US09227511B1 Positionable shifter system
A positionable shifter assembly for use in a vehicle adapted to transport a physically limited person, wherein a front passenger compartment includes a dashboard, a driver side compartment, a passenger side compartment, and a vehicle shifter disposed between the driver side compartment and the passenger side compartment. The positionable shifter assembly includes a platform configured to support the vehicle shifter, wherein the platform is configured be positioned at a plurality of locations within the front passenger compartment. A securing mechanism is the configured to secure the positionable shifter assembly at one of the plurality of locations within the vehicle.
US09227510B2 Fuel tank affixing structure for construction machine
To provide a fuel tank fixing structure for a construction machine, which does not require a belt and is capable of fixing a fuel tank on a vehicle body stably.The present invention provides a fuel tank fixing structure, for example when fixing a fuel tank 11 made of synthetic resin on a revolving frame 2a of a revolving superstructure 2 of a compact excavator, that includes a standing member having a supporting member 11 to be fixed on the revolving frame 2a in a standing state, a hydraulic oil tank 10 made of iron, and a fixing bracket 14 made of iron, and a holding assembly for holding a fuel feed opening 11a provided on the fuel tank 11, such as a holding bracket 13 made of iron. A bushing 15 is engaged with a hole 13a1 formed in a plate part 13a of the holding bracket 13. The feed opening 11a of the fuel tank 11 is inserted into a hole 15a of the bushing 15 so that the feed opening 11a of the fuel tank 11 is held by the holding bracket 13 via the bushing 15.
US09227505B2 Hybrid vehicle driving device
A hybrid vehicle driving device includes a first planetary gear mechanism, a second planetary gear mechanism, and a clutch, wherein a sun gear of the first planetary gear mechanism is connected to a first electric rotating machine, a carrier of the first planetary gear mechanism is connected to a driving wheel, a ring gear of the first planetary gear mechanism is connected to an engine, a sun gear of the second planetary gear mechanism is connected to a second electric rotating machine, the carrier of the second planetary gear mechanism is connected to the ring gear of the first planetary gear mechanism and the engine through the clutch, and a ring gear of the second planetary gear mechanism is connected to the driving wheel.
US09227504B2 Hybrid vehicle driving system, hybrid vehicle, and driving method
When a driver turns on an accelerator, a CPU permits revolution of planetary gears, and a motor rotates a ring gear to drive wheels. Then, when the driver turns off the accelerator, the CPU calculates a target RPM to be output by a Stirling engine according to a depression amount and a depression time of the accelerator. When the RPM output by the Stirling engine reaches close to the target RPM, the revolution of the planetary gears is inhibited, the operation of the motor is stopped, and the Stirling engine rotates the ring gear via a sun gear and the planetary gears to drive the wheels.
US09227503B1 Electric power split hybrid system
An electric power split hybrid system comprises a case, a linkage unit, an electric power part, and a switching part. An engine, a generator, a motor, and a transmission mechanism are installed in the case. The generator is used to start the engine, and is capable of adjusting a torque of the engine and of generating electricity via driving of the engine. The transmission mechanism is used to link and move a wheel to rotate. The linkage unit is used to link and move the engine and the motor. The electric power part is used to store electrical energy generated by the generator and to supply electric power to the motor. The switching part is connected to the generator, the motor, and the electric power part. Electric power generated by the generator is switched by the switching part to supply to one of the motor and the electric power part.
US09227501B2 Transmission for a vehicle and a method of assembling a modular motor assembly in the transmission
A transmission for a vehicle and a method of assembling a modular motor assembly in the transmission are disclosed. The transmission includes a housing defining a cavity along a longitudinal axis. The transmission further includes a first motor/generator and a second motor/generator each disposed in the cavity. The transmission also includes a first support supporting the first motor/generator such that the first motor/generator is mounted to the first support to define a first modular unit. The first modular unit is attached to the housing within the cavity. The transmission further includes a second support supporting the second motor/generator such that the second motor/generator is mounted to the second support to define a second modular unit. The second modular unit is attached to the first modular unit such that the first and second modular units align with each other along the longitudinal axis within the cavity of the housing.
US09227498B2 Structure of mounting cowl-top cover
A protrusion portion of a clip member is abutted against an end face of a front glass lower end, and the clip member is fixed to a back face of the front glass via an adhesive agent. An engagement portion that is formed in a tongue piece of a cowl-top cover is engaged with a target engagement portion of the clip member, and the cowl-top cover is mounted in a state in which a surface of the cowl-top cover and a surface of the front glass are arranged so as to be flush with each other. In addition, an engagement direction is defined as an engagement direction taken along a lengthwise direction oriented from a lower end to an upper end of the front glass.
US09227497B2 Seal structure for vehicle roof
Misalignment of a weather strip is controlled by a corner formed by a shoulder part and a lower inclined part formed in an edge portion of an opening of a roof. A locating face of a sealing part is pressed onto the shoulder part on one side of the corner, and a locating face of an inclined extension part is pressed onto the lower inclined part on the other side of the corner. The sealing part is adhered to at least one of the shoulder part or the upper inclined part with a double-sided tape.
US09227490B2 Guide rail for a sliding roof system and method of producing such a guide rail
A guide rail (10) for a vehicle sliding roof system, having a guide (22) which can receive a sliding element (18) for shifting motion that is coupled to a cover of the sliding roof system, the guide (22) including a shifting section (17) that extends in a substantially straight line, and the guide rail (10) being made of metal, in particular of an aluminum alloy, is characterized in that it includes a lifting section (16) which integrally adjoins the shifting section (17) and extends obliquely to the direction of extent of the shifting section (17). Also described is a method of producing a guide rail for a vehicle sliding roof system.
US09227489B2 Side panel of a vehicle roof that can be opened
The invention relates to a side panel of a vehicle roof that can be opened, which is provided for closing a lateral opening between a cover raised over the vehicle roof and the adjoining vehicle roof and has a pivot mounting which can be attached on the roof side, wherein according to the present embodiments the pivot mounting extends along the side panel and in particular the pivot mounting has a curved or bowed pivot pin.
US09227488B2 Tensioning device and sunscreen assembly provided therewith
A tensioning device for tensioning a flexible elongate member, such as a cord, comprises a first winding member which can rotate around an axle for, directly or indirectly, winding and unwinding the elongate member at a first end thereof, and a second winding member which can rotate around said axle for, directly or indirectly, winding and unwinding the elongate member at the second end thereof. The first and second winding members are interconnected by a tensioning member striving to cause a relative rotation between the first and second winding members for creating a prestress or tension in the elongate member. A restriction device is provided for limiting the maximum possible relative rotation between the first and second winding members.
US09227487B2 Sliding headliner for a motor vehicle
A sliding headliner for a motor vehicle that is movably guided on guides on both sides and that comprises a flexible shading element, whereby the invention provides that the shading element is tightened by two side profile strips of the sliding headliner, which strips are movably guided on the two guides, that each guide has a front guide section and a rear guide section, that the two side profile strips are held at a distance from one another by the rear guide sections under tightening of the shading element in the transverse direction and are guided in a non-tightened manner in the transverse direction by the front guide sections, and that the side profile strips are held at a distance from one another in the transverse direction on the front guide sections by their own bending stiffness and/or by a cross bow.
US09227484B1 Unattended vehicle passenger detection system
A system detects the presence of a living being within a vehicle and triggers an alarm should the temperature rise above or fall below a predetermined threshold limit. The system uses a carbon dioxide monitor to determine for the living being's presence, which is backed up by one or more subsystems that include a motion sensor that senses motion, a sound sensor that senses sounds, especially those made by distressed living beings, and a camera that uses facial recognition software to detect a face within the vehicle. The alarm can be staged so that a lower level of alarm is triggered when the hazardous temperature is approaching, but has not yet reached critical levels, and one of the subsystems has detected a living being within the vehicle, but the others have not yet activated, and a higher level alarm once critical temperatures have been reached.
US09227482B2 Airflow selecting mechanism for a vehicle cabin air conditioning apparatus
A vehicle cabin air conditioning apparatus including an airflow selecting mechanism movable between a first position to provide a first airflow mode and a second position to provide a second airflow mode. The airflow selecting mechanism restricts first airflow from flowing from a first airflow conduit to a second airflow conduit when in the first position, and permits the first airflow from flowing from the first airflow conduit to the second airflow conduit when in the second position. An electronic control unit is configured to control a first blower based on a user set front cabin airflow level and a second blower based on a user set rear cabin airflow level when in the first airflow mode. The electronic control unit controls the first blower based on the user set front cabin airflow level and the user set rear cabin airflow level when in the second airflow mode.
US09227480B2 Method for producing a chassis component
A method of producing a chassis component. The method including the steps of coating an outside of a structural component, coating an outside of a joint cartridge which has been preassembled as a joint, and permanently and securely connecting the structural component to the joint cartridge using a material bonding or joining process.
US09227476B2 Systems and methods for automated air suspension pressure drop
Various systems and methods for automated air suspension pressure drop are disclosed.
US09227473B2 Synchronization of tyre bead breaker tools
An apparatus and a method for synchronously moving first and second fitting or removal tools (300, 400) of a tire fitting or removing apparatus. When an operator moves the first fitting or removal tool (300) in a substantially radial direction with respect to a longitudinal axis (L) of a post (210) supporting the first and second fitting or removal tools (300, 400), a synchronization unit receives first and second input signals of first and second sensors (320, 420) coupled to the first and second fitting or removal tools (300, 400) and indicating a radial movement or position of the tools (300, 400). The synchronization unit generates, based on a comparison of the first and second input signals, an output signal causing an actuator (450) to move the second fitting or removal tool (400) synchronous to the first fitting or removal tool (300) in said substantially radial direction.
US09227471B2 Tire position determination system
A tire position determination system includes a tire pressure detector attached to each tire to generate a tire pressure signal. An acceleration detector generates gravitational information for each tire pressure detector. A receiver arranged in a vehicle body receives the tire pressure signal from each tire pressure detector. An axle rotation amount detector detects an axle rotation amount of an axle corresponding to each tire and generates pulses indicative of the detected axle rotation amount. An automatic locator determines the position of each tire based on the gravitational force and the pulses. A pulse combination determination unit determines whether or not a combination of the pulses from the axle rotation amount detectors is appropriate. A pulse acquisition timing setting unit sets an acquisition timing of the pulse signal for the automatic locator based on the determination of the pulse combination determination unit.
US09227470B2 Tire pressure monitoring system
A tire pressure monitoring system has a first abnormality determination means for determining a state to be normal, the normal state being when the front wheel air pressure is higher than a front wheel warning threshold 400 kPa and the rear wheel tire pressure is higher than a rear wheel warning threshold 240 kPa. The first abnormality determination means also turns on a warning light in the state. A second abnormality determination means turns the warning light to an off state regardless of the determination result of the first abnormality determination means when the warning light is turned off while the vehicle is stopped, the tire pressures of two wheels have been determined to be higher than the front wheel warning threshold 400 kPa, and the tire pressures of the remaining two wheels have been determined to be higher than the rear wheel warning threshold 240 kPa.
US09227468B2 Motorcycle tire
A motorcycle tire is provided in each half of the tread portion with main and auxiliary oblique grooves. The main oblique grooves on both sides of the tire equator are staggered and have axially inner ends at a first axial distance of 1 to 4 mm from the tire equator. The auxiliary oblique grooves have axially inner ends at a second axial distance more than the first axial distance. The main oblique groove comprises an axially inner part inclining at an angle of not more than 30 degrees and a middle part inclining at a larger angle of from 25 to 70 degrees. The auxiliary oblique groove comprises an axially inner part inclining at an angle of 25 to 55 degrees and a middle part inclining at a larger angle of from 45 to 75 degrees, each angle with respect to the tire circumferential direction.
US09227467B2 Pneumatic tire
This invention pertains to a tire comprising at least one carcass ply and at least one breaker ply, the carcass and breaker plies each comprising continuous filaments having a tenacity of at least 15 grams force per dtex and a modulus of at least 400 grams force per dtex wherein the carcass ply turn-ups terminate under the at least one breaker ply. The invention further pertains to a tire comprising a plurality of apex components and carcass ply turn-ups that terminate within the apex region of the tire. The invention also discloses a tire wherein the carcass ply turn-ups terminate in the upper sidewall region of the tire and ply spacers are located between ply-turn-ups.
US09227466B2 Pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire which uses, as an inner liner layer, a laminated sheet obtained by laminating an air permeation preventing layer, made of any one of a thermoplastic resin and a thermoplastic elastomer composition containing a blend of the thermoplastic resin and an elastomer, and a tie rubber layer, and which has high durability to prevent development of a crack in the tie rubber layer that occurs around a splice portion of the laminated sheet after the tire starts to be used. In the pneumatic tire, a sagged portion is formed by a concavo-convex structure in the air permeation preventing layer at least between points P and Q in a shape that a length La of a straight line connecting points P and Q and a length Lb of the air permeation preventing layer actually passing through points P and Q satisfy a relationship of (1.03×La)≦Lb≦(1.5×La).
US09227465B2 Bicycle wheel securing structure
A bicycle wheel securing structure comprises a wheel securing axle and a wheel securing bolt. The wheel securing axle has a first end and a second end. The wheel securing bolt has a bolt shaft and a bolt head. The bolt shaft is coupled to one of the first and second ends of the wheel securing axle. The wheel securing bolt has a frame engageable surface extending in a peripheral direction of the bolt head and is configured to be non-rotatably engaged with a bicycle frame.
US09227464B2 Axle assembly for a work vehicle
An axle assembly for a work vehicle may generally include a hub, a casing at least partially received within the hub, and a shaft configured to be received within the casing. The hub defines a tapered inner surface and the casing defines a tapered outer surface. The tapered inner surface of the hub defines a first keyway portion defining a first keyway surface, and the tapered outer surface of the casing defines a second keyway portion defining a second keyway surface. The tapered surfaces of the hub and the casing together define a tapered interface and a keyway. The first and second keyway surfaces of the keyway extend in a direction non-parallel to the tapered interface.
US09227462B2 Outboard sealing system for a heavy-duty vehicle wheel end assembly
An outboard sealing system cooperates with components of a heavy-duty vehicle wheel end assembly to retain lubricant in the assembly. The sealing system includes a seal that is disposed axially between an outboard bearing and a hubcap of a wheel end assembly. The seal also extends radially between an axle spindle nut and a surface of a bore formed in the hub of the wheel end assembly. The seal forms a barrier between the outboard bearing and the hubcap to reduce a flow of lubricant from a hub cavity into the hubcap. The sealing system retains lubricant in the wheel end assembly, prevents contaminants from entering the wheel end assembly, and retains the relative position of the outboard bearing in the hub during servicing. The sealing system preferably includes an additional barrier that reduces corrosion at the interface of the hubcap and an outboard face of the hub.
US09227461B2 Image transfer material and polymer composition
Provided is an image transfer material, comprising a support, optionally at least one barrier layer, a melt transfer layer, and an image receiving layer. Also provided is a process for preparing the image transfer material. Further provided is a heat transfer process using the disclosed material. In the heat transfer process, after imaging, the image receiving layer and melt transfer layer are peeled away from the optionally barrier-coated support material and placed, preferably image side up, on top of a receptor element. A non-stick sheet is then optionally placed over the imaged peeled material and heat is applied to the top of the optional non stick sheet. The melt transfer layer then melts and adheres the image to the receptor element. A composition comprising: at least one self-crosslinking polymer, and at least one dye retention aid.
US09227460B2 Reciprocating pencil sharpener
A reciprocating pencil sharpener has a stationary member, a cutter and a ratchet mechanism. The cutter includes a blade secured to a blade holder. The ratchet mechanism is mounted between the stationary member and the cutter and allows the cutter to rotate relative to the stationary member in one direction only. When a user desires to sharpen a pencil, the user can keep the pencil in the hand and rotate the pencil in reciprocating rotation, thus obtaining the sharpened point of the pencil. Consequently, it is convenient for the user to apply a rotational force and a high efficiency of sharpening operation is achieved.
US09227457B1 Decorative keepsake and associated use thereof
A keepsake for being filled with party favors, treats, small gifts, gift cards and/or greeting cards includes a flexible sheet provided with oppositely disposed front and rear sides, oppositely disposed top and bottom edges, oppositely disposed right and left portions, a center portion intermediately disposed between the right and left portions, a bottom portion extending upwardly from the bottom edge and spanning across the right, center and left portions, respectively. A decorative item (e.g., party favor, treat, small gift, gift card and/or greeting card) is positioned proximate to the pocket such that the decorative item (e.g., party favor, treat, small gift, gift card and/or greeting card) is visible from the front side without blocking the pocket when the sheet is oriented in the tri-folded position.
US09227456B2 Memories with cylindrical read/write stacks
A three-dimensional memory is formed as an array of memory elements across multiple layers positioned at different distances above a semiconductor substrate. Cylindrical stacks of memory elements are formed where a cylindrical opening has read/write material deposited along its wall, and a cylindrical vertical bit line formed along its central axis. Memory elements formed on either side of such a cylinder may include sheet electrodes that extend into the read/write material.
US09227455B2 Element for making a presentation means
An element (13) for making a flip-over presentation unit (1), shaped by a bundle of strips of material (2) provided with an adhesive strip (5) onto which sheets (15) can be adhered, which strips of material (2) are provided with holes (4) through which at least one binding spiral (3) is passed, wherein the element (13) is provided with a rigid support (14) in which the binding spiral (3) is fixed, wherein the width of the support (14) corresponds mainly to the width of the sheets (15), wherein the binding spiral (3) is fixed to the support (14) by detachable parts (19) provided with toothings (26) extending between the coils of the binding spiral (3), wherein the support (14) is provided with alignment members (12) to align the sheets (15) with respect to the strips of material (25).
US09227449B2 Stamp face forming apparatus, stamp face forming method, and non-transitory computer-readable recording medium
A stamp face forming apparatus includes: a stamp face forming unit having a plurality of heating elements arranged in a direction along a surface on which a porous stamp face material being able to become nonporous by heating is held, and a drive circuit for controlling the heating states of the plurality of heating elements, the stamp face forming unit being configured to form a stamp face on the stamp face material while pressing the stamp face material; and a control unit configured to control the drive circuit of the stamp face forming unit in such a manner as to reduce the heating amount per one dot to be heated of the stamp face material in the arrangement direction of the plurality of heating elements corresponding to a decreasing length of the stamp face material in the arrangement direction of the plurality of heating elements.
US09227446B2 Belt cleaning device and image forming apparatus
A belt cleaning device includes a cleaning roller. The cleaning roller includes a roller having an outer peripheral surface. A sheet-like cleaning element is wound to the outer peripheral surface of the roller. One end part of the cleaning element is fixed to the outer peripheral surface of the roller. Both side edge parts in the other end part of the cleaning element are fixed to the outer peripheral surface of the roller. The both side edge parts in the other end part of the cleaning element are located on the outside of their region that is to face to possibly largest paper.
US09227444B1 Inkjet print heads alignment assembly, kits and methods
The disclosure relates to assemblies, kits and methods for alignment of inkjet print heads. More particularly, the disclosure relates to assemblies, kits and methods facilitating the alignment of inkjet printheads by selectably modulating the printheads' phase, registration, and yaw relative to the printing direction and optionally, with respect to an additional printhead or printheads.
US09227442B2 Printing apparatus and registration adjustment method
An embodiment of this invention solves a problem about a precision drop of registration adjustment of a range detection method due to variations of a registration state depending on a position associated with a carriage scanning direction. In that embodiment, reference and adjustment patterns are formed to be juxtaposed in a nozzle array direction to detect a position shift between patterns in the main scanning direction. In this case, coarse registration adjustment is executed by the range detection method, and its adjustment result is applied to a printing apparatus. After that, fine registration adjustment is executed by a density method, and results of the two adjustment methods are finally reflected.
US09227440B2 Ink jet textile printing apparatus
A tray mounting unit in which it is possible to replace a plurality of types of set trays; a detector capable of detecting the type of set tray mounted on the tray mounting unit in a state where the target textile printing material is set; a determining unit determining whether the type of set tray detected by the detector and the type of set tray recognized in advance are matched or mismatched; and a control unit performing a predetermined operation based on the determining result of the determining unit, are provided. Thus, inconsistencies in the type of set tray may be detected thereby preventing textile printing defects caused by such inconsistencies.
US09227437B2 Label printer and label printing system
A label printer can appropriately print an image and attribute information on a label.A label printer 1 has a printhead 26, and a control unit 60 that prints an image and attribute information for the image on a label 52 by the inkjet head 26. The label 52 is separated by a half-cut 55 into a first label part 56 and a second label part 57, and removably affixed to a continuous liner 51. The control unit 60 of the label printer 1 includes an image printing control unit 61 that prints an image on the first label part 56, and an attribute information printing control unit 62 that prints image attribute information on the second label part 57.
US09227434B2 Precision registration in a digital printing system
A printing system for printing on a web of media traveling along a web transport path, including a plurality of printheads for printing on the web of media, each of the printheads being configured to print at one or more corresponding print locations along the web transport path. A plurality of web transport rollers guide the web of media along the web transport path. Each of the plurality of web transport rollers has a roller circumference that is substantially equal to an integer fraction of a span of the web of media along the web transport path between two successive print locations.
US09227432B2 Conveyor device and inkjet recording device including conveyor device
A conveyor device is arranged to face a recording head. The conveyor device includes a conveyance belt and a suction section. The conveyance belt conveys a recording medium. The suction section includes a guide member that supports the recording medium through the conveyance belt. The suction section sucks the recording medium through a plurality of first holes passing through the guide member and a plurality of second holes passing through the conveyance belt to attach the recording medium to the conveyance belt. None of the first holes are formed in a first region of the guide member. The first region is a region where a partial region pertaining to a feeding member overlaps with a head facing region facing the recording head.
US09227430B2 Processing object modifying apparatus, printing apparatus, printing system, and method for manufacturing printout
A processing object modifying apparatus includes a conveying unit that conveys a processing object; a plasma processing unit that performs plasma processing onto a surface of the processing object while the processing object is being conveyed by the conveying unit; a measuring unit that measures a pH value of the processing object to which the plasma processing has been applied; and a controlling unit that controls the conveying unit to change a conveying speed of the processing object on the basis of a measurement result of the measuring unit, the processing object to which the plasma processing is being applied.
US09227429B1 Indirect aqueous inkjet printer with media conveyor that facilitates media stripping in a transfer nip
An aqueous inkjet printer includes a media conveyor having an endless belt to which media sheets adhere. The endless belt is entrained around a transfer roller and a roller. The transfer roller forms a nip with an image member in the printer and the media sheets on the endless belt pass through the nip to transfer images from the image member to the media sheets. After the media sheets exit the nip, they follow the endless belt to the roller where the radius of the roller enables a force to be applied perpendicularly to the media sheets to separate the media sheets from the endless belt.
US09227424B1 System and method for missing ejector correction for half-toned images in three-dimensional object printing by adding drops in other layers
A method for compensating for inoperative ejectors in a three-dimensional object printer has been developed. A printer generates half-tone data for a material for each layer of a three-dimensional object. The printer detects half-tone data that corresponds to an inoperative ejector of a printhead. The printer modifies the half-tone data by moving the half-tone values corresponding to the inoperative ejector to adjacent positions within the generated half-tone data in which a zero half-tone value is stored. The printer operates the printhead with reference to the modified half-tone data to print the three-dimensional object.
US09227407B1 Waste liquid container, liquid ejection device, and waste liquid collection system
A waste liquid container includes a fitted portion, in which a discharge unit is fittable in a removable manner, a container connection terminal, which contacts a device connection terminal, an insertion restriction portion, which contacts a device contact portion and restricts movement of the waste liquid container in the insertion direction, and an engaged portion, which includes a contacted portion that contacts a removal restriction unit and restricts movement of the waste liquid container in the removal direction. The engaged portion is located toward an inner side in the lateral direction from a side wall at a position lower than both of the container connection terminal and the insertion restriction portion. The removal restriction unit is receivable in a region located toward an outer side in the lateral direction from the engaged portion.
US09227406B2 Method of manufacturing an ejection orifice member
A method of manufacturing an ejection orifice member includes: preparing a substrate including a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer, the first layer protruding in a first direction crossing a principal surface of the substrate, the second and third layers being formed on the first direction side of the first layer, the preparing a substrate including forming the second layer to follow a contour of a first direction side surface of the first layer, and then forming the third layer on a surface of the second layer which protrudes on the first direction side; performing plating using the second layer as a seed to form a fourth layer on the first direction side of the second layer; removing the third layer from the fourth layer to form a hole as the ejection orifice in the fourth layer; and thinning the fourth layer at least around the hole.
US09227405B2 Inkjet recording apparatus
An inkjet recording apparatus may include a conveyor belt, suction unit, linear recording heads, and head frame shaped like a plate. The conveyor belt has a placement face on which a recording medium is placed and may be configured to cause the placement face to move in a conveyance direction. The suction unit disposed below the placement face applies a suction force exerted by a downward airflow to the recording medium placed on the placement face. The linear recording heads may be disposed upward opposite to the suction unit across the conveyor belt, have a nozzle face where an ink ejection nozzle is formed, and extend in a direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction. Linear recording heads may be arranged in the conveyance direction. The linear recording heads may be attached to the head frame. The head frame may have a ventilation opening penetrating in a thickness direction.
US09227401B2 Printing element substrate, printhead, and printing apparatus
A printing element substrate, comprising a plurality of units configured to print on a printing medium based on print data, each of the plurality of units, including a printing element configured to print on the printing medium, a first transistor configured to operate as a source follower upon receiving a voltage at a gate terminal of the first transistor, and supply a current to the printing element, and a second transistor configured to control supply of the current to the printing element in response to a control signal input to a gate terminal of the second transistor.
US09227400B2 Ejection condition determination method, image forming method, and image forming apparatus
An ejection condition determination method in an image forming apparatus includes: selecting two or more kinds of ejection conditions regarding other recording elements than a specified recording element among plural recording elements; acquiring drawing data representing two or more drawing patterns having different density distributions, the drawing data being acquired by respectively forming same drawing patterns using the selected two or more kinds of ejection conditions in a specified non-ejection state; performing a filter processing corresponding to human visual characteristics on the acquired drawing data so as to obtain visual correction drawing data; and determining the ejection conditions for compensating for a density variation of the image due to the specified non-ejection state based upon evaluation results which are obtained by respectively evaluating two or more drawing patterns represented by the visual correction drawing data and having been subjected to the filter processing according to a predetermined evaluation condition.
US09227398B2 Printing apparatus and printing control method thereof
This invention relates to suppression of density unevenness caused by occurrence of ink-landing position shifts between print scans. In an embodiment, upon printing by scanning an inkjet printhead including printing elements, the following control is executed. That is, in order to form an image by print scans of the printhead on a single print area on a print medium, image data are acquired in correspondence with the respective scans. Also, the printing elements are partitioned into plural groups each including continuously arrayed printing elements, and the printing elements in each of the plural groups are time-divisionally driven based on drive sequences. Then, the drive sequences upon time-divisional driving in respective scans are set to include elements having the same drive timings and those having different drive timings.
US09227395B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and image processing system
An image processing apparatus includes an acquiring unit, a first calculating unit, a setting unit, a second calculating unit, a first generating unit, and a second generating unit. The acquiring unit acquires image data of an image to be formed by a recording unit using an inkjet system. The first calculating unit calculates a thickness of ejected ink for each pixel based on the image data. The setting unit sets a target thickness of the image. The second calculating unit calculates a difference between the target thickness and the thickness of ink for each pixel. The first generating unit generates complementary data, in which an ejection amount of an additional droplet to realize a thickness corresponding to the difference is defined for each pixel. The second generating unit generates print data containing the image data and the complementary data.
US09227388B2 Devices and methods for attaching support frames to substrates
Devices and methods for attaching support frames to substrates to form articles such as implantable stent grafts can include providing a first laminate material; positioning a support frame onto the first laminate material, the support frame having a pre-formed shape; positioning a second laminate material onto the support frame and first laminate material; bonding the first laminate material to the second laminate material; cutting the first and second laminate materials along opposite sides of the support frame thereby forming a laminated support frame having generally the same pre-formed shape of the support frame; and attaching the laminated support frame to a substrate.
US09227384B2 Pressure debulking system
A pressure debulking system includes a debulking chamber having a debulking chamber interior, a pressure bladder having a bladder interior provided in the debulking chamber interior, a vacuum port disposed in fluid communication with the debulking chamber interior and a pressure port disposed in fluid communication with the debulking chamber interior. A pressure debulking method is also disclosed.
US09227378B2 Methods, devices and processes for multi-state phase change devices
Devices include multiple phase change materials connected in parallel between electrodes. Memory cells with multiple parallel phase change materials can be programmed to transition among more than two states representing multiple bits of information. Methods for manufacture and use are also disclosed.
US09227371B2 Optical lens, mold set for manufacturing the optical lens, and method of manufacturing the optical lens
An optical lens includes a lens portion having an optical axis, and an exterior portion connected to an outer periphery of the lens portion. The exterior portion has first and second surfaces that are disposed along a direction parallel to the optical axis and spaced apart from each other, a first annular surface that extends from a periphery of the second surface parallelly with respect to the optical axis, and a second annular surface that interconnects the first annular surface and the first surface. The second annular surface extends obliquely with respect to the first annular surface.
US09227368B2 Golf balls including a crosslinked thermoplastic polyurethane cover layer having improved scuff resistance
This disclosure relates to golf balls having a cover layer made from a crosslinked thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer. The crosslinked thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer includes crosslinks located in the hard segments, where the crosslinks being the reaction product of unsaturated bonds located in the hard segments catalyzed by a free radical initiator. The crosslinks may be formed from an unsaturated diol as a chain extender. The unsaturated diol may be trimethylolpropane monoallylether (TMPME). The cover layer may have certain properties, such as a desirable flexural modulus value and a desirable Shore D hardness value, that further contribute to the golf ball having a high degree of scuff resistance.
US09227364B2 Method of manufacturing custom sized plastic tote having intermediate sleeve
A method of manufacturing a custom sized plastic tote lighter in weight than heretofore known custom sized plastic totes is provided. The method comprises separating an injection molded tote into upper and lower portions by cutting the injection molded tote. A sleeve or middle portion of plastic material is secured to the upper and lower portions of the injection molded tote to create a custom sized plastic tote of a desired height. Alternatively, portions of different injection molded totes may be used to create a custom sized plastic tote. The sleeve may be made from different materials and may be made of multiple pieces.
US09227361B2 Imprint lithography template
Nano imprint lithography templates for purging of fluid during nano imprint lithography processes are described. The templates may include an inner channel and an outer channel. The inner channel constructed to provide fluid communication with a process gas supply to a region between the template and a substrate during the nano imprint lithography process. The outer channel constructed to evacuate fluid and/or confine fluid between the active area of template and the substrate.
US09227360B2 Preparation of aligned nanotube membranes for water and gas separation applications
Fabrication methods for selective membranes that include aligned nanotubes can advantageously include a mechanical polishing step. The nanotubes have their ends closed off during the step of infiltrating a polymer precursor around the nanotubes. This prevents polymer precursor from flowing into the nanotubes. The polishing step is performed after the polymer matrix is formed, and can open up the ends of the nanotubes.
US09227359B2 System and method for manufacturing custom-fit three-dimensional artificial nails
A system and method is provided for quickly and accurately creating custom-fit artificial nails by introducing a secondary shaping process to pre-made nail blanks by using thermoforming method with appropriate nail tooling. The method includes measuring a natural nail and using this information to select a matching, or, close to matching, nail blank and a mold where the nail blank is thermoformed in the mold to match substantially the size and shape of the natural nail. The options available in combining pre-made nail blanks with further thermoforming allows for accommodating a wide variety of shapes and sizes of natural nails. The system and method offers the advantage of safely producing custom-fit artificial nails, which fit properly on user's natural nails within a short period of time. The system is advantageously small and suitable for use inside a nail salon.
US09227356B2 Engagement structure between a mouth member of a pressure vessel and a blow pin, mouth member structure of a pressure vessel having the engagement structure and method of making a pressure vessel
In a pressure vessel which is formed by blow molding a plastic liner with a mouth member fitted on a blow pin, a rotational torque is prevented from being applied between the mouth member and the blow pin when removing the blow pin. A parison is placed around the mouth member which is fitted on the blow pin, and is blow molded with a die assembly placed around the parison so that a vessel shaped plastic liner is formed. An engagement structure which is provided between the mouth member of the pressure vessel and the blow pin includes a ball moveably received in a radial through hole of the peripheral wall of the blow pin, and a release groove formed on an inner circumferential surface of the mouth member and having a prescribed depth. When the blow pin is introduced into the mouth member until the ball and the release groove oppose each other, the ball moves radially outward and becomes partly received by the release groove to engage the mouth member with the blow pin.
US09227354B2 Feedblock multiplier with thickness gradient variation, feedblock system, method, and related multilayer structure
Disclosed are a feedblock multiplier with thickness gradient variation, a feedblock system, a method, and multilayer structure made by the method. The feedblock multiplier combines the functionalities of feedblock and multiplier conventionally used for producing the multilayer structure. The feedblock multiplier includes an input section for feeding fluid materials. A feedblock section is included for dividing the fluid delivered into multiple channels correspondingly. The fluids in the channels are segmented into two or more fluid segments by a segmenting section. The each fluid segment is delivered through corresponding channel-conversion section with thickness-gradient variation in the feedblock multiplier. Each channel-conversion section includes multiple channels with configurable positions. The fluids are then combined in a multiplier section for producing the multilayer structure with overlapped layers. The multilayer structure is outputted from an extruding section.
US09227351B2 Edge-gated injection molding apparatus
Disclosed is an edge gating injection molding apparatus for delivering a moldable material to an array of mold cavities, the array can have a first column and a last column of mold cavities, the edge gating injection molding apparatus comprising: a unidirectional delivery body for delivering a first stream of the moldable material to a different one of each mold cavity of the first column and the last column of mold cavities, via a first location of the different one of each mold cavity of the first column and the last column of mold cavities; and a bidirectional delivery body for delivering a second stream of the moldable material to the different one of each mold cavity of the first column and the last column of mold cavities, via a second location of the different one of each mold cavity of the first column and the last column of mold cavities.
US09227348B2 Method for forming a glass-plastic composite
Disclosed is a method for forming a glass-plastic composite which includes the steps of: a) activating a first surface of a glass substrate, b) applying an adhesive material on the first surface that has been activated to form an adhesive layer on the first surface, and c) placing the glass substrate together with the adhesive layer in a mold and injection molding a plastic material over the adhesive layer. A glass-plastic composite made according to the method is also disclosed.
US09227347B2 Method of making a heat sink assembly, heat sink assemblies made therefrom, and illumants using the heat sink assembly
In an embodiment, a method of making a heat sink assembly can include: forming a heat sink assembly comprising a polymer heat sink around a metal insert, the polymer heat sink comprising a thermally conductive polymer material, wherein the heat sink assembly has a contact pressure between the polymer heat sink and the metal insert; and increasing the contact pressure. In an embodiment, a method of making a heat sink assembly includes: heating a mold and subsequently introducing a metal insert to the mold, wherein the metal insert has an insert temperature of 30° C. to 70° C. when it is inserted into the mold; closing the mold; and in less than or equal to 10 seconds of closing the mold, over-molding the metal insert with a thermally conductive polymer material to form a heat sink assembly.
US09227346B2 Plastic composite articles and methods of making same
A reinforced composite article and method for making the same. The article and method employ at least one elongated plastic member as a reinforcement phase. An intermediate form including the elongated member is made and can be processed, for example, to form a composite article with a smooth exposed reinforcement surface.
US09227342B2 Abrasive article having abrasive segments with shaped gullet walls
A segment for an abrasive article is disclosed. The segment can include a segment body that can have a first face that can extend along a length of the segment body on a first side of the segment body and a second face that can extend along the length of the segment body on a second side of the segment body opposite the first side. A gullet wall can extend from the first face to the second face. The gullet wall can extend along a gullet. The segment can also include a recessed region that can extend into one or both of the first and second faces. The recessed region can include a gullet portion extending at least partially along the gullet wall.
US09227340B2 Hanging concrete mixer barrel wiper
An exemplary wiper assembly for use with a concrete mixer includes a wiper element configured to span a gap between a mixer barrel and a collector, and is configured for suspendedly coupling to a support frame separate from any coupling to the mixer barrel or the collector. One or more arm members are coupled between the concrete mixer and the wiper element. The arm member includes a tensioning portion that adjusts to move an upper edge of the wiper element into contact with the mixer barrel, and an elastic portion that enables the wiper element to adjust relative to each of the collector and the mixer barrel during rotation of the mixer barrel. Thus the wiper element has limited movement independent of rotation of the mixer barrel and of vibrational movement of the collector and mixer barrel due to movement of the concrete mixer over rough terrain, for example.
US09227338B2 Multi-functional wood preservatives based on a borate/fatty acid combination
Wood preservatives, methods for protecting wood and wood-based products and/or structures utilizing the preservatives, and treated wood and wood-based articles and/or structures incorporating the preservatives are described. Methods are also provided for remediating structures already infected with mold. The subject wood preservative formulation includes a borate compound and a fatty acid. The addition of an emulsifier to the formulation further facilitates application of the treatment. The combination of a borate compound and fatty acid combination typically provide a synergistic effect compared to the additive result provided by the combination's individual components.
US09227337B2 Push block for a woodworking apparatus
A push block for a woodworking tool comprises at least heel member at an end of the push block and the heel member is passively actuatable to an extended position to engage a trailing end surface of a work piece to advance the work piece by a working element. The push block also includes a wall member along a first side of the push block to serve as a barrier between a cutting element and an operator's hand. In addition, the push block includes a handle that is disposed obliquely relative to first and second sides and a longitudinal axis of the push block.
US09227335B2 System and method for cutting tubular shrink sleeve material for application to containers
A tubular film cutting arrangement for cutting tubular shrink film into sleeves of suitable length for application to containers includes a support member having a film passage opening therein; a plurality of knife drive pulleys rotatably mounted to the support member and spaced apart around the film passage opening, each knife drive pulley having a knife member mounted thereon for rotation with the knife drive pulley; a plurality of idler rollers rotatably mounted to the support member, each idler roller arranged between two of the knife drive pulleys, wherein a drive belt path is formed between the knife drive pulleys and the idler rollers; and a drive belt extending along the drive belt path such that a first side of the drive belt is in contact with each of the knife drive pulleys and a second side of the drive belt is in contact with each of the idler rollers; wherein the idler rollers are positioned to interact with the second side of the drive belt in order to hold the first side of the drive belt in contact with the knife drive pulleys.
US09227332B2 Power operated rotary knife
A two-part rotary knife blade (2300, 3300) for a power operated rotary knife. The knife blade (2300) includes a carrier portion (2302, 3302) and a blade portion (2350, 3350), the blade portion configured to be received in a nested relationship by the carrier portion and being releasably secured to the carrier portion by an attachment structure (2370, 3370). The attachment structure (2370, 3370) including a plurality of projections (2372, 3372) extending from one of an outer wall (2354, 3354) of the blade portion (2350, 3350) and the inner wall (2304, 3304) of the carrier portion and a plurality of sockets (2374, 3374) disposed in the other of the outer wall of the blade portion and the inner wall of the carrier portion, each of the plurality of projections being received in a respective different one of the plurality of sockets to releasably secure the blade portion to the carrier portion.
US09227331B2 Razor blade unit
A razor blade unit including a housing having a top surface, and a loop disposed on the top surface, the loop having two terminal ends and two exposed opposing edges between the two terminal ends. The loop intersects the top surface at the two terminal ends and the two terminal ends are spaced apart from each other on the top surface. At least a portion of at least one of the two exposed opposing edges has a cutting edge. The razor blade unit provides improved conformity to skin contours.
US09227329B2 Device for the sealed attachment of an interchangeable member in a chamber ring mounted on a wall of a containment cell
A device for sealed attachment of an oval or circular interchangeable member in an oval or circular chamber ring including a mechanical system for secure immobilization of the interchangeable element through the retaining ring mounted on a wall of a containment cell. The attachment device includes an oval or circular retaining ring supporting the interchangeable member. The integral retaining ring includes at least three recesses and the chamber ring includes at least three bolts able to penetrate into the recesses in order to lock the retaining ring on the chamber ring. The retaining ring receives a set of keys supporting the interchangeable element.
US09227326B2 Remote center of motion mechanism and method of use
According to one exemplary embodiment, a manipulator device includes a base, first and second linear slides, a drive link, a drive member, a driven member and an end effector. The elements of the manipulator device cooperate to constrain the end effector to rotate about a remote center of motion that is displaced from a proximal center of motion as the drive link moves a carriage of the second linear slide along an arcuate path.
US09227323B1 Methods and systems for recognizing machine-readable information on three-dimensional objects
Methods and systems for recognizing machine-readable information on three-dimensional (3D) objects are described. A robotic manipulator may move at least one physical object through a designated area in space. As the at least one physical object is being moved through the designated area, one or more optical sensors may determine a location of a machine-readable code on the at least one physical object and, based on the determined location, scan the machine-readable code so as to determine information associated with the at least one physical object encoded in the machine-readable code. Based on the information associated with the at least one physical object, a computing device may then determine a respective location in a physical environment of the robotic manipulator at which to place the at least one physical object. The robotic manipulator may then be directed to place the at least one physical object at the respective location.
US09227316B2 Tool box
A tool box has a lower section, with drawers and a horizontal storage compartment, and an upper section, with vertical storage compartments. The upper section compartments can be arranged in variable sizes through the use of inserted dividers, thus providing a unique space for each tool. A flag can be disposed so that when a tool is removed from its unique space, the flag is easily visible to show that the tool is missing. The tool box can eliminate clutter, organize tools and prevent misplacement and loss of tools.
US09227315B2 Multiple tool
Multi-tool, including at least one pivot (2, 3, 202, 302) on which are articulated a plurality of implements (4, 5, 6, 104, 204, 205, 304, 305) each rotatable from a minimum size inactive position to at least one operating position, characterized in that said pivot (2, 3, 202, 302) comprises elastic retaining means (9) of at least one of these implements (4, 5, 6, 104, 204, 205, 304, 305) in operating position and/or in the minimum encumbrance position.
US09227314B2 Device and kit for making images for jewelry and accessories
Disclosed herein are embodiments of apparatuses and kits for making craft image tiles to customize jewelry or other accessories. One embodiment of an apparatus for making craft image tiles comprises a base having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface with a cavity there between; a cutting mechanism movably positioned within the cavity and comprising a cutting blade configured to cut through a sheet of images; and a handle extending from the cutting mechanism and accessible outside of the base, configured to move the cutting blade along an axis substantially perpendicular to the top surface of the base in response to a mechanical input at a handle input end. The top surface includes an aperture defined therein, and the aperture is sized to receive the cutting blade.
US09227313B2 Operation mode switching mechanism
An operation mode switching mechanism for use with a power tool disclosed in the present invention includes a torsion unit, a switching unit, a clutch member, a power output member and an output shaft, where the switching unit can be switched between three rotating positions and one impact position. When the switching unit is at one of the rotating positions (screw symbols), the output shaft is driven to rotate by a carrier plate; and when switching unit is switched to the impact position (impact symbol), the output shaft is pushed by the clutch member so as to disengage from the carrier plate and is driven by a planet plate. The clutch member also restricts the direction of motion of the output shaft in the impact position, so the output shaft moves back and forward to generate reciprocating impact output.
US09227309B2 Quick change bit holder with ring magnet
A bit holder assembly for a rotary hand or powered tool, includes a body having a hex shank at its rearward end and a retraction collar slidably disposed on the body. The body has a coaxial hex socket formed therein to allow a tool bit to be inserted thereinto. A coil spring biases the retraction collar forwardly and biases a retaining clip toward the bottom of an angular slot formed in the body. The bit is removed by sliding the retraction collar rearwardly, to compress the coil spring and allow the retaining clip to retract back up the slot. A ring magnet is disposed at the forward end of the retraction collar to magnetize a fastener to retain the fastener to the bit.
US09227307B2 Reversible ratchet wrench
A reversible ratchet wrench includes a wrench body, one end of which having a ratchet portion that has an activating opening and a circular hole, and an arc ratchet slot formed therebetween; a control unit having a circular plate portion, one end of which extending to form a handle unit, while the other end of which forming a block unit, and a U-shaped base formed at the top portion of the block unit and a spring is disposed at the U-shaped base; a ratchet unit, one end which having arc teeth, the other end of which having a protruding restricting portion, and a column protrudingly extending from one end of the restricting portion; and a rotating unit disposed at the activating opening of the wrench body, and a teeth ring formed at outer periphery of the rotating unit to engage with the arc teeth of the ratchet unit.
US09227306B2 Ratcheting torque wrench head
A ratcheting wrench head for use with a torque wrench has spaced apart first and second jaws extending from a base portion to define an opening for accommodating a bolt or nut to be rotated. A ratchet member is movably mounted in a through hole formed in the second jaw between an outer surface and an inner surface of the second jaw. A biasing member is located in the through hole of the second jaw and forces the ratchet member against a portion thereof. Inner surfaces of the first jaw and the second jaw are particularly constructed to enhance ratcheting performance of the wrench head relative to the bolt or nut. The through hole is formed with a dirt slot for enabling removal of foreign material from the wrench head.
US09227301B2 Scraper assembly
The invention pertains to a novel scraper assembly having a plurality of interchangeable scraper heads and handles and corresponding method for use. The scraper assembly further comprises a plurality of abrasive mechanisms, namely spring bristles, coiled springs, chainmail abraders and wire cloth abraders capable of effectively cleaning a surface without scoring or otherwise damaging the surface. The invention may be particularly useful for cleaning grills and ovens. Additionally, the invention may also be useful for shaping, adding texture to, stripping materials from or otherwise preparing a surface, including wood, metal or ceramic surfaces.
US09227300B2 Hollow spring and method for manufacturing same
A straight-shaped hollow spring material is used in a blasting apparatus. The length of the spring material is set to be 1.5 m to 3.5 m, and the inner diameter of the spring material is set to be not more than 10 mmφ (not including 0). In inner surface abrasive blasting for the spring material, first and second blastings are performed. In the first blasting, abrasives are ejected to an opening portion of the spring material and are suctioned from a second opening portion thereof. In the second blasting, the abrasives are ejected to the second opening portion and are suctioned from the opening portion. The ejection pressure, the suction pressure, and the like are appropriately set, so that generation of grinding amount difference between the center portion and both end portions of the inner surface of the spring material can be inhibited.
US09227299B2 Method of manufacturing an optical lens
A method of manufacturing an optical lens, comprising: providing a lens member comprising a first surface and a first reference system identified by engraved markings on the first surface, providing surface data corresponding to a second surface of the optical lens to be manufactured, providing second markings on the lens member defining a second reference system, providing marking positioning error between the second markings and the engraved markings, providing an adhesive tape on the first surface of the lens member, and a manufacturing step during which the second surface of the optical lens is manufactured according to the surface data and the marking positioning error such that the relative position of the first and second surfaces is respected.
US09227298B2 Saw blade sharpening apparatus
The present invention provides a sound level meter that may be removably coupled to a saw blade sharpening apparatus to aid in safe, reliable, reproducible and effective saw blade sharpening. The sound level meter is adapted to be removably attached to the saw blade sharpening apparatus and to provide accurate and reliable indication of interference between the saw blade and the saw blade sharpening stones. The sound level meter is capable of detecting interference even in the often noisy operating environment.
US09227291B2 Angle grinder
An angle grinder is provided and may include a cutting arm on which a tool may be mounted in a rotating manner about an axis of the grinder and a guide element that is arranged on the axis to control a cutting depth of the tool during a workpiece cutting operation.
US09227290B2 Power-driven hand tool
A power-driven hand tool is disclosed, comprising a tool spindle that can be driven in a rotational oscillatory manner about its longitudinal axis and that is designed to carry a tool, and further comprising a transmission housing, in which there is carried an eccentric coupling drive for driving the tool spindle and from which the tool spindle projects outwardly with one end, wherein, for the purpose of mass compensation of the oscillatory motion of the eccentric coupling drive, a compensatory mass is provided, which is disposed outside of the transmission housing.
US09227282B2 Machine tool for rotary machining
A machine tool has a mechatronic assembly which has a machine spindle and has a tool head which is held on the machine spindle and which has a basic body and also at least one working slide, which is adjustable relative to the basic body, for holding a tool. The mechatronic assembly contains an electric adjusting motor which acts on the working slide. The machine tool has a support device which holds the mechatronic assembly and which has an articulated joint arrangement at which the mechatronic assembly can be pivoted at least about a first axis and about a second axis which differs from the first axis.
US09227281B1 Coreless paper roll support apparatus and method of using
A tool for mounting a coreless roll of flexible sheet material on a replacement core apparatus including a replacement core and an insertion aid having a polygonal outer end and a base having a profile that matches the profile of outer surface of the replacement core, the replacement core in an embodiment having an enlarged lip member on at least one end, whereby the insertion aid is dimensioned such that it fits over the enlarged lip member enabling the replacement core to be inserted into a central aperture of a coreless roll with the end having the enlarged lip member passing through the center aperture, and in another embodiment the insertion aid having a crenulated tapered section that transitions the outer surface from a polygonal shape to a circular shape to match the cross section of the at least one lip member or outer surface of the replacement core.
US09227278B2 Bolt hole repair technique
A method of hole defect repair includes removing one or more defects at or near a desired hole in a part by removing a portion of the part proximate the desired hole in a series of chain link patterns, and welding a filler material to the part after removing the chain link pattern portion of the part.
US09227277B2 Method for repairing a turbine diaphragm and diaphragm assembly resulting therefrom
This disclosure describes embodiments of a method of repairing a diaphragm found in a turbine, and a diaphragm assembly resulting from the same, that does not require welds in between the partitions. The method inserts a replacement part in place of certain machine-removed portions of the existing partitions on the diaphragm. The replacement part includes coupons that work in combination with the remaining portions of the partitions to form the aerodynamic shape of the original partitions.
US09227274B1 Joining via nano-scale reinforced bonding media: materials, procedures and applications thereof
Method of joining articles using microscale brazing alloy particles reinforced with slender nanomaterials is described. Surface modified graphite nanomaterials were dispersed in a medium comprised of metal alloy particles, this dispersion was introduced at the interface between the joining articles followed by heating under ultra high vacuum. The nanomaterial-to-metal alloy surface contacts were enhanced by at least one of fusion, embedment and chemical reaction phenomena under high temperature and ultra high vacuum yielding true nanocomposite at the interface. The fusion, embedment and chemical reaction phenomena enhance at least one of the mechanical, electrical, thermal, durability and functional attributes of these contact points, which translate into improved properties of the joined article. The enhanced contact points enable effective use of the distinct qualities of nanomaterials towards development of joints which offer unique balances of strength, ductility, toughness, energy absorption, thermal stability, weathering resistance and other characteristics.
US09227272B2 Nanocomposite welding wires
Welding wires and methods for welding metal work pieces using the welding wires are provided. The welding wires are composite materials comprising a metal alloy and high temperature nanoparticles dispersed in the metal alloy.
US09227270B2 Method to monitor the life of the contact tip in GMAW-pulse
A method of monitoring and assessing contact tip useful life in a GMAW-pulse application. The pulse welding waveform includes current and voltage that periodically change between peaks and background. The welding current and voltage are measured on a series of repeated representative welds. The data that corresponds to the arc start and the arc stop of a weld is removed. The data is averaged for each representative weld, which corresponds to production of welded parts and/or usage of the contact tip. The deterioration of the contact tip is assessed based on one or more of (i) a decrease in the frequency of the peaks, (ii) an increase in the length of the background, and (iii) an increase in the occurrence of abnormal low voltage. The assessment is outputted as contact tip life data, and continuously fed to a controller or operator.
US09227268B1 Methods, systems, and apparatuses for laser shock peening metal materials
Methods, systems, and apparatuses are disclosed for improving fatigue strength and damage tolerance of metal materials. For example, a system is provided for laser shock peening a metal material, the system comprising: a momentum trap material; a laser; an actuator, capable of pressing the momentum trap material into intimate contact with a first side of the metal material; and an advancer, capable of advancing the momentum trap material relative to the first side of the metal material.
US09227267B1 Warm bond method for butt joining metal parts
A method of solid phase bonding metal pieces by securing a first and second metal pieces in edge to edge contact; subjecting the first and second metal pieces to a first upset comprising heating the first and second edges to a temperature in the range of 0.35-0.95 of the melting temperature of the first and second metal pieces and applying a first axil force to the first and second metal pieces to urge the first and second edges together, to upset the metal at the edge to edge contact and form a bond; and subjecting the bonded metal piece to a second upset comprising heating the bonded metal piece between secured locations to a temperature in the range of 0.35-0.95 of the melting temperature of the metal and applying a second axil force to the bonded metal piece to upset the bonded metal piece and form a solid phase bond.
US09227264B2 Weld head angle adjustment system
A weld head angle adjustment system includes a weld head, a base unit, and an angle adjustment mechanism. The weld head includes a welding torch and an arc voltage control assembly that is operatively connected to the welding torch and configured to move the welding torch. The angle adjustment mechanism is operatively connects the weld head to the base unit and is designed to change an angle between the welding torch and the base unit while ensuring that an orientation between the welding torch and the arc voltage control assembly remains fixed as the angle between the welding torch and the base unit is changed. In some embodiments, the angle adjustment mechanism includes a bolt that connects the weld head to the base unit. The angle adjustment mechanism is configured such that the angle between the welding torch and the base unit can be adjusted when the bolt is in a first state and the angle is fixed when the bolt is in a second state.
US09227261B2 Vacuum carriers for substrate bonding
A vacuum carrier can be employed to provide a partial vacuum on a back side surface of a substrate thereby holding the substrate flat against a rigid surface of the carrier throughout the duration of a bonding process. The magnitude of vacuum can be optimized to limit the warping of the substrate during and after bonding with another substrate, and to limit the mechanical stress induced in the solder balls during cooling. The vacuum carrier can include a base plate, a seal plate with at least one opening configured to accommodate at least one substrate, and vacuum seal elements configured to create a vacuum environment that pushes the substrate against the base plate when the vacuum carrier is under vacuum. The configuration of the vacuum carrier is chosen to avoid distortion of the substrate due to the vacuum seal elements, while allowing adjustment of the magnitude of the partial vacuum.
US09227258B2 Lead-free solder alloy having reduced shrinkage cavities
A lead-free solder alloy having improved surface properties which suppresses minute irregularities and shrinkage cavities has a composition consisting essentially of Ag: 0.1-1.5%, Bi: 2.5-5.0%, Cu: 0.5-1.0%, optionally Ni: 0.015-0.035% and/or at least one of Ge and Ga: 0.0005-0.01%, and a remainder of Sn and unavoidable impurities.
US09227256B2 Split rethreading tap
Damaged threads in a blind tapped hole are repaired with a tap having an elongated shaft with a plurality of outer faces, and a plurality of flutes corresponding to the number of shaft outer faces, each flute has an outer face with a lower segment with cutting threads corresponding to the hole threads, and is moveable radially between a closed position toward the longitudinal axis and a radially expanded position in which the threads of the flute outer face mesh with the threads of the hole. The tap is inserted into the hole while the flutes are in the closed position so that the cutting threads are below the damaged threads. The shaft is then inserted between the flutes to move the flutes to their expanded positions meshing the cutting threads with undamaged threads below the damaged threads. The tap is then rotated to repair the damaged threads.
US09227254B2 Large angular displacement assembly for press tools
A tool head using a scissor style pair of jaws is described. The jaws may be provided with cutting, pressing, crimping, or other functional surfaces. The tool head includes a linearly positionable member which is engaged with the jaws. Upon linear displacement of the member, the jaws are pivotally displaced.
US09227252B2 Elbow formed by cutting and method for manufacturing same
A hole is formed in an elbow through the steps of: forming a starting hole in a material, the starting hole having an undercut remaining on a hole surface; finishing an inner diameter of the starting hole (11−3) on one end side by revolving a side cutter (II) including an arc-shaped cutting edge and having an outer diameter smaller than a finishing hole diameter while rotating the side cutter (II) in such a posture that the side cutter (II) is inclined in a predetermined direction relative to the material (12), the revolving being carried out so that the side cutter moves along a hole surface to be finished; and finishing the inner diameter of the starting hole (11−3) on another end side by revolving the side cutter (II) while rotating the side cutter (II).
US09227250B2 Gun barrel manufacturing process
Disclosed herein is a method of manufacturing two or more gun barrels, the method comprising: machining (103) a single metal block to form a barrel preform having the outer shape of at least a first gun barrel and a second gun barrel; drilling (105) a first hole through the first gun barrel to form a first barrel bore; and drilling (107) a second hole through the second gun barrel to form a second barrel bore. Advantages include the barrels being integrally attached to each other and so a soldering operation to attach the barrels to each other is avoided.
US09227242B2 Containment of molten aluminum using non-wetting materials
A method of containing molten aluminum using non-wetting materials comprising depositing MgAl2O4, or one selected from an oxide, Al2O3, nitride, AlN, BN, carbide, and SiC, onto a crucible. An apparatus for containment of molten aluminum using non-wetting materials comprising a layer of MgAl2O4, or one selected from an oxide, Al2O3, nitride, AlN, BN, carbide, and SiC, deposited onto a crucible.
US09227240B2 Crimping head for impact wrench
A crimping head for use with an impact wrench to crimp fittings onto a structure carrying the fitting, that includes a universal adaptor having a head, and a socket positioned in the head sized and shaped to receive a standard anvil of an impact wrench without further connection between the impact wrench and the crimping head. A locking assembly is provided for cooperating with the universal adaptor head for locking the anvil into the socket, and a transmission is attached to the universal adaptor for being driven by the universal adaptor and for converting rotational movement of the anvil into selective rearward and forward movement. A jaw assembly is attached to the transmission and adapted to close into a crimping position and open into a release position responsive to the rearward and forward movement of the transmission.
US09227235B2 Method for producing a small thin-walled tube from a magnesium alloy
The invention relates to a method for producing a small thin-walled tube for a medical application or for a medical product, in particular for a stent, wherein a blank of an in particular bioresorbable magnesium alloy is deformed to produce a small tube, after which the small tube is used for medical purposes or from which the medical product, such as a stent, can be made. In order to be able to produce the small tube in one step and with high precision, it is provided according to the invention that a male die (2) with a base body (3) and a mandrel (4) tapered relative to the base body (3) and the blank is provided with a blind hole or an opening, wherein a diameter of the blind hole or the opening of the blank is equal to or greater than an outer diameter of the mandrel (4), after which the blank with inserted mandrel (4) with the male die (2) is pressed forwards at least in part through a female die (5) with a receiving region (6) and a contouring region (7), wherein the contouring region (7) has a free diameter, which is larger than the outer diameter of the mandrel (4), but smaller than an outer diameter of the blank, in order to form the small tube.
US09227233B2 Mineral-releasing compost and method of using the same for soil remediation
Described herein is a mineral-releasing compost prepared by combining a prebiotic material, a probiotic material, and one or more mineral gluconate salts to form a composting mixture, controlling composting conditions to allow for the composting mixture to decompose, and allowing the composting mixture to fully stabilize and mature, wherein the compost includes one or more minerals as digested products of the respective mineral gluconate salts. The mineral-releasing compost is particularly suitable for remediation of soil contaminated with heavy metals and for amendment of soil deficient of certain minerals.
US09227230B2 Method for obtaining substantially pure hybrid cereal seed and machine for use thereof
The present invention relates to a method for obtaining substantially pure hybrid cereal seed and a machine for use thereof. In particular the invention describes a method for separating hybrid barley seed from a mixed population of inbred barley seed and hybrid barley seed on the basis of a difference which is detectable via the use of near infrared light.
US09227229B2 Method to improve detection of thin walled polyethylene terephthalate containers for recycling including those containing liquids
Disclosed herein are methods to improve detection of PET polymer materials within a waste material to be sorted. The methods disclosed allow for municipal solid waste to be separated so that PET polymer materials, including those containing liquids, are separated for recycling, or other purposes. PET polymer materials, such as water bottles which have been disposed of while still containing liquid may now be separated by the enhanced methods disclosed herein.
US09227228B2 Mail sorting system
Provided is a mail sorting system including: a detection unit configured to output a detection signal for a length of a mail inserted to a conveyor belt; a crossbelt driving unit configured to control a motor interworking with a crossbelt including a central region and first and second lateral regions adjacent to both sides based on the central region where the mail is moved and arranged from the conveyor belt; and a control unit configured to transmit a motor control signal which controls at least one of an rpm and a rotational speed of the motor so that the mail is arranged on any one of the central region and the first and second lateral regions based on the detection signal, to the crossbelt driving unit, in order to easily discharge the mail from a destination discharge point by disposing the inserted mail at a setting region of the crossbelt.
US09227227B2 Escort based sorting system for mail sorting centers
An Escort-Based Sorting (EBS) mail sorting and distribution center system configured and controlled for optimum mail flow and dispatch, minimal sorting center space usage, and elimination of peripheral storage and retrieval equipment. A plurality of input stations each include a mechanism for loading mailpieces and obtaining mailpiece data. A plurality of sorting banks each having a plurality of sorting modules, each sorting module adapted for the face-to-face conveyance of mailpieces for sorting by transferring select mailpieces from a first to a second conveyance path. The sorting modules define at least one row and a plurality tiers operatively coupled by a plurality of elevators. The elevators move mailpieces to and from tiers of the respective sorting bank. A system controller, operatively coupled to the input stations, sorting banks, and elevators, creates an association between the mailpiece information and the escort device, and sorts and dispatches mailpieces according to a dispatch schedule.
US09227225B2 Bearing cooling system for vibratory devices
An bearing cooling system is connected to and actuated by the vibration of a vibratory device to pump lubricant to lubricate internal components of the vibratory device. The bearing cooling system has a bottom end cap with an inlet in fluid communication with the vibratory device, a top end cap with an outlet for delivering the lubricant to lubricate components of the vibratory device, a tube disposed between and sealingly engaging the bottom end cap and the top end cap, and a piston having a lubricant passageway. The piston is slidably disposed within the tube downstream of the bottom end cap and upstream of the top end cap. Vibration of the vibration device causes the piston to oscillate within the tube to draw lubricant from the vibration device which passes through the lubricant passageway in the piston, and delivers lubricant to lubricate internal components of the vibration device. Upstream of the top end cap a heat exchanger and/or a filter can be used to cool and/or remove debris from the lubricant before lubricating the internal components.
US09227224B2 Method of forming macro-structured high surface area transparent conductive oxide electrodes
A method of forming a high surface area transparent conducting electrode is provided that includes depositing a transparent conducting thin film on a conductive substrate, where the transparent conducting thin film includes transparent conductive particles and a solution-based transparent conducting adhesive layer which serves to coat and bind together the transparent conducting particles, and heat treating the transparent conducting adhesion layer on the conductive substrate, where an increased surface area transparent conducting electrode is formed.
US09227223B2 Method for preparing the matte anti-fingerprint stainless steel decorative plate
The present invention provides a method for preparing a matte anti-fingerprint stainless steel decorative plate. The method comprises the steps of: 1) selecting a polymer coating material, wherein the polymer coating material is formed by mixing a film forming material, an inorganic nano-filler, a solvent and an auxiliary agent, wherein the film forming material comprises the following ingredients based on the weight ratio: 30-50 parts of acrylate composite resin, 5-20 parts of amino resin, and 5-15 parts of epoxy resin; and 1-8 parts of a matting agent and 1-8 parts of an anti-settling agent are added; and 2) performing a spray coating using the polymer coating material, wherein a coating film has a thickness of 1.5-2.5 μm, the precision of the atomization air pressure of a spray gun is controlled at ±0.1 bar during spray coating, and the coating is dried to obtain a finished product and then a matte anti-fingerprint stainless steel decorative plate which has a high-standard matte and anti-fingerprint index is prepared.
US09227221B2 Hydrophilic-core microcapsules and their formation
Hydrophilic-core microcapsules and methods of their formation are provided. A hydrophilic-core microcapsule may include a shell that encapsulates water with the core substance dissolved or dispersed therein. The hydrophilic-core microcapsules may be formed from an emulsion having hydrophilic-phase droplets dispersed in a hydrophobic phase, with shell-forming compound contained in the hydrophilic phase or the hydrophobic phase and the core substance contained in the hydrophilic phase. The shells of the microcapsules may be capable of being broken down in response to being contacted by an alkali, e.g., produced during corrosion, contacting the shell.
US09227218B1 Double-sealant tube structure for caulking gun
A double-sealant tube structure for a caulking gun includes a container (10), a first feeder (20), a second feeder (30), and a pushing member (40). The container has an interior provided with a separation plate (12). The pushing member is provided with two first thrust portions (42) corresponding to the first feeder and a second thrust portion (41) corresponding to the second feeder. The pushing member is further provided with two cutting blades (43) each intersecting the separation plate of the container. Thus, when the pushing member pushes the first feeder and the second feeder, the separation plate is cut by the cutting blades to allow the pushing member to move forward.
US09227214B2 Adjustable gas distribution assembly and related adjustable plasma spray device
Various embodiments include an adjustable gas distribution assembly for an adjustable plasma spray device. In one embodiment, the assembly includes: a first gas distribution ring including a plurality of openings allowing a gas to pass to an inner diameter thereof, the first gas distribution ring including a mating surface upstream of the plurality of openings; and a positioning ring axially aligned with the gas distribution ring between the first gas distribution ring and an electrically charged outlet of the plasma spray device, wherein the positioning ring includes a mating surface that mates with the mating surface of the first gas distribution ring to form the gas distribution assembly, wherein the mating surface of the positioning ring is sized to mate with a plurality of distinct gas distribution rings including the first gas distribution ring.
US09227213B2 Push button for a pressurised-product dispensing system
A push button for a pressurised-product dispensing system, including an actuation body having an orifice for ejecting the product, a needle closing off the ejection orifice and a sleeve having a mounting well, the body being mounted to slide about the sleeve between high and low positions, forming between them a sealed space for conveying the product, the needle being associated with the sleeve by a link rotatably mounted on the sleeve to actuate the reversible movement of the needle between a closure position—or respectively an open position—of the ejection orifice when the body is in the high position—or respectively in the low position—, the needle provided with geometric means that interact with the body to exert a force holding the needle in a mounting position in which the needle projects from the body to enable the link to be associated with the needle.
US09227212B2 Fluid dispensing apparatus and method
A fluid dispenser for containing and dispensing metered amounts of fluid that includes a reservoir for containing fluid and a chamber positioned substantially within the reservoir for containing a quantity of the fluid. The fluid dispenser additionally includes a piston that is moveable within the chamber to draw fluid into the chamber when the piston is moved in a first direction with respect to the chamber, and to discharge fluid from the chamber when the piston is moved in a second direction opposite the first direction. Further, the fluid dispenser includes a user-manipulatable control coupled to the piston and rotatable about an axis to select one of at least two different metered quantities of fluid to be dispensed. The user-manipulatable control is further movable to move the piston relative to the chamber along the axis to selectively dispense the selected metered quantity of fluid.
US09227210B2 Cap of spray mineral water bottle and multifunctional spray mineral water bottle
The invention discloses a cap of spray mineral water bottle, including cap body, spray means and water locking means. This cap of spray mineral water is used with resilient mineral water bottle body to form a multifunctional spray mineral water bottle, which can ensure normal drinking of mineral water as well as carry out spray drinking of water by means of squeezing the bottle body to transform bottle body and increase the pressure inside the bottle, thus making water to enter inlet from the outlet of water locking means on the cap, and to enter the atomizing channel through the water channel, finally to be sprayed from the spray aperture. Furthermore, in the open air or in the dusty and hot environment, you can place the mineral water bottle upside down, put the nozzle to face your body or surrounding, and squeeze the bottle body to spray, thus reducing surrounding temperature, as well as subsiding dust by combining dust and spray to make you feel cool, fresh and comfortable.
US09227202B2 Portable shower head with air inlet cover
A portable shower head with an air inlet cover includes a decorative cover, a middle cover with soft rubber nozzles and a shower head body. Two air holes are provided on the middle cover. An air inlet connector with a hollow water channel is provided in the front part of the cavity of the shower head handle, and on the air inlet connector, air inlet holes are provided. A second inner wall is set in the front part of the cavity of the shower head handle. A front end sealing ring of the air inlet connector seals the second inner wall. A middle sealing ring of the air inlet connector seals a first inner wall of the shower head handle, so as to form the air space. A tail end sealing ring of the air inlet connector seals a water inlet pipe.
US09227200B2 Microfluidic devices with flexible optically transparent electrodes
Microfluidic devices in which electrokinetic mechanisms move droplets of a liquid or particles in a liquid are described. The devices include at least one electrode that is optically transparent and/or flexible.
US09227199B2 Magnetising portion for a magnetic separation device
The present disclosure relates to a magnetizing portion for providing a high-gradient magnetic field in a magnetic separation device. The magnetizing portion comprises at least one magnetic assembly. The at least one magnetic assembly comprises: a plurality of magnets whereby each magnet has a north pole, south pole and a magnet axis extending between the north and south poles, and the plurality of magnets are arranged one above the other in a direction at least substantially perpendicular to the axis of each magnet in such a manner that the north and south poles of adjacent magnets are arranged alternately and a space is provide between adjacent magnets; and at least one non-magnetic spacing means arranged in the space between adjacent magnets. The present disclosure also relates to magnetic separation devices comprising at least one of the said magnetizing portions and to a method of isolating magnetically labelled particles using the magnetic separation devices.
US09227197B2 Simplified valuable mineral sorting apparatus and method of sorting valuable minerals using the same
Disclosed herein is a simplified valuable mineral sorting apparatus including, a first storage tank which accommodates a mixture of water and heavy powder and includes a specific gravity measurement module; a second storage tank accommodating a portion of the mixture exceeding a capacity level line of the first storage tank; a first discharge tube which is connected to the first storage tank and the second storage tank to introduce the excess portion of the mixture into the second storage tank, and which is positioned at the capacity level line of the first storage tank; a second discharge tube which is connected to the first storage tank to discharge the mixture in the first storage tank and which includes a flow rate control module; a specific gravity sorting device which includes a sorting container for receiving the mixture discharged from the second discharge tube and which changes a slope of the sorting container to sort minerals from the mixture in the sorting container; and a control unit for controlling the flow rate control module and the specific gravity sorting device.
US09227195B2 Scrapped glass pulverizing device
A scrapped glass pulverizing device includes a vibration crushing device. The vibration crushing device includes a vibration hammer, a vibration generator that controls vibration of the vibration hammer up and down, and a crushing platform arranged below the vibration hammer and supports scrapped glass.
US09227191B2 Cone crusher having an arrangement for measuring a position of a crushing shell
A cone crusher includes an outer crushing shell and an inner crushing shell forming a crushing gap there between. The outer crushing shell is supported on an upper frame member in vertically adjustable engagement with a lower frame member. A sensor arrangement having a sensor element is provided for measuring the vertical position of the outer crushing shell. The cone crusher further includes a target means arranged to be detectable by the sensor element, wherein one of the target means and the sensor element are arranged to follow vertical movement of the upper frame member and to move in relation to the other one of the target means and the sensor element. The sensor element includes a vertical sensing array which extends in a vertical direction along at least a portion of a range within which the target means may be moved upon adjusting the vertical position of the upper frame member.
US09227188B2 Device, system, and method for selecting a target analyte or fluid
This disclosure is directed to a device and a system for aspirating and dispensing a target analyte, target material, or fluid. A picker may aspirate and dispense the desired material by introducing a pressure gradient. The picker may include a hydraulic fluid to hydraulically couple at least two components, such as a moveable pump component and a cannula.
US09227185B2 Nickel/lanthana catalyst for producing syngas
The present invention relates to a nickel/lanthana-(Ni/La203) catalyst for producing syngas from a hydrocarbon feedstream that is prepared in situ by depositing nickel (Ni) on a lanthana (La2O3) support by contacting said La2O3 support with an aqueous nickel-salt (Ni-salt) solution in the presence of an oxygen-comprising gas stream which is followed by reducing the deposited Ni. The catalyst of the present invention is characterized in that it can be continuously operated for more than 14 days in a process for producing syngas from a hydrocarbon feedstream without showing a significant loss of catalyst activity.
US09227181B2 Catalyst to increase propylene yields from a fluid catalytic cracking unit
A catalyst composition resulting in increased propylene yields during fluid catalytic cracking processes comprises (i) Y zeolite, (ii) ZSM-5 zeolite, and (iii) Beta zeolite.
US09227179B2 Selenium-containing hydroprocessing catalyst, its use, and method of preparation
A hydroprocessing catalyst composition that comprises a support material and a selenium component and which support material further includes at least one hydrogenation metal component. The hydroprocessing catalyst is prepared by incorporating a selenium component into a support particle and, after calcination thereof, incorporating at least one hydrogenation metal component into the selenium-containing support. The metal-incorporated, selenium-containing support is calcined to provide the hydroprocessing catalyst composition.
US09227176B2 Ammonia oxidation catalyst
Provided is a catalyst article for treating an emission gas comprising (a) a noble metal catalyst layer comprising one or more noble metals disposed on a first refractory metal oxide support; and (b) a vanadium catalyst layer comprising vanadium pre-fixed on a second refractory metal oxide support selected from alumina, titania, zirconia, ceria, silica, and mixtures of these, wherein the first catalyst layer is in physical contact with said second catalyst layer. Also provided is a method for making such a catalyst article, a method for treating gas emissions using such an article, and an emission gas treatment system incorporating such an article.
US09227170B2 System for manufacturing graphene nanoribbon by continuous microwave
A system for manufacturing graphene nanoribbon by continuous microwave is disclosed. The system comprises a microwave heating tank for heating carbon nanotube through microwave, a reaction tank for adding an oxidizing or reducing agent and a pipeline for connecting all devices of the system. A feed rate is controlled by a pump to enter raw material into the system via the pipeline, the nanotube is made to be a graphene nanoribbon by heating, adding the oxidizing agent, reheating, adding the reducing agent and reheating. Therefore, the graphene nanoribbon could be mass produced automatically in a short time.
US09227166B2 High-hardness polycrystalline diamond and method of preparing the same
There are provided sufficiently strong, hard, and heat resistant, dense and homogenous polycrystalline diamond applicable to cutting tools, dressers, dies and other working tools and excavation bits and the like, and a cutting tool having a cutting edge of the polycrystalline diamond. The polycrystalline diamond is formed substantially only of diamond formed using a composition of material containing a non diamond type carbon material, the composition of material being converted directly into diamond and sintered at ultra high pressure and ultra high temperature without aid of a sintering aid or a catalyst, and has a mixed microstructure having a fine crystal grain of diamond having a maximal grain size of at most 100 nm and an average grain size of at most 50 nm and a coarse crystal grain of diamond in the form of one of a platelet and a granule having a grain size of at least 50 nm and at most 10,000 nm.
US09227151B2 Cyclone such as for use in a surface cleaning apparatus
A cyclone comprises a cyclone chamber having an air inlet, a vortex finder, a first end wall, a second end wall and a sidewall, the air inlet has an inlet end having a shape and a cross sectional area in a plane transverse to a direction of airflow through the air inlet, and the air inlet is provided at a first juncture of the sidewall and the first end wall, the vortex finder has a wall that meets one of the first and second end walls at a second juncture, wherein the second juncture extends at an angle to both the wall of the vortex finder and the end wall on which the vortex finder is provided.
US09227150B2 Device for ejecting droplets of an electrically conductive fluid, vapor suppressing means for use in said device and a method for suppressing vapor of an electrically conductive fluid
In a device for ejecting droplets of an electrically conductive fluid, a vapor suppressing device is provided to suppress vapor of the electrically conductive fluid. The vapor suppressing device includes an electrode, adapted to provide a direct voltage. Further, a method for suppressing vapor of an electrically conductive fluid in a device for ejecting droplets of an electrically conductive fluid is provided.
US09227143B2 Game control server apparatus
A game control server apparatus includes an evolution information storing unit that stores a base character, a partner character and an evolved character associated with each other, the base character being converted to the evolved character by combining the base character and the partner character; and an evolution process management unit that coverts, upon accepting an evolution instruction of a base character possessed by a first player by combining the base character and a partner character possessed by another second player to evolve the base character from the first player, the base character to an evolved character that is associated with the base character and the partner character using the partner character of the second player under a condition that a process of paying reward from the first player to the second player is performed.
US09227141B2 Touch screen game controller
Aspects of the present invention allow a touch screen device to operate as a gamepad for a video game running on a separate gaming device. Aspects of the present invention provide a virtual control interface through the touch screen that includes virtual game controls that perform the same function as a directional pad, buttons, triggers, and sticks found on a gamepad or other game controller. In one aspect, the virtual control interface provides an output that is substantially similar to an output generated by a gamepad able to interact with the gaming device. Substantially similar outputs allow a gaming device to respond to a functional control from a gamepad and an equivalent functional control from the virtual control interface the same way and without translation. Aspects of the present invention can provide different virtual control interfaces for different video game titles, different genres, and based on user customization.
US09227138B2 Game controller and game system
A first control unit includes a first operation data generation section for generating first operation data in accordance with a motion of a first control unit body included in the first control unit. A second control unit includes a second operation data generation section for generating second operation data in accordance with a direction input operation performed by a player or a motion of a second control unit body included in the second control unit. Further, one of the first control unit and the second control unit includes a transmission section for transmitting the first operation data and the second operation data to a computer at a predetermined timing.
US09227136B2 Systems and methods for integrated game play through the use of barcodes on smart phones and hand held devices
A user device in a system for selling gaming products receives a game play request from a user. Barcode information associated with a barcode at a location is obtained. The user device sends a gaming request associated with the game play request over a wireless network. The barcode information provides for verification that the gaming transaction occurs in a geographical location that is within the jurisdiction of the appropriate gaming authority.
US09227133B2 Variable point generation craps game
A variable point generation craps game includes a random indicator generator providing only members of a predetermined set of indicators, at least two point value selectors and a bet. Each of the indicators designates a point value selector, each of which has an initial state providing all possible point values obtainable, and with the same probability, from a single roll of a standard pair of dice. The point value selectors yield at least one point for the craps game upon designation by the random indicator generator. The bet depends upon at least one point value selected by at least one of the point value selectors. In a variation, a single point value selector is used and the random indicator generator designates an integer that determines a predetermined operation to be performed upon the point value selector to yield at least one point for the craps game.
US09227131B2 Four-part gliding apparatus
A gliding apparatus includes four gliding bodies that can be selectively separated or assembled together. In the assembled configuration, the first and second gliding bodies form opposite lateral portions of the gliding apparatus, and the third and fourth gliding bodies form a longitudinally extending intermediate gliding body defining a median portion of the gliding apparatus. A device to affix the four gliding bodies together includes first and second assembly elements that are affixed, respectively, to the third and fourth gliding bodies to form the intermediate gliding body. The first assembly element includes at least a first longitudinal projection, projecting from the fourth gliding body and designed to extend over an upper surface of the third gliding body. The first longitudinal projection of the first assembly element is designed to be engaged with the second assembly element to limit relative longitudinal spacing between the third and fourth gliding bodies.
US09227128B1 Systems and methods for visualizing and analyzing impact forces
Impact force feedback systems (IFFS) and methods for their use are described. The IFFS can measure and display raw or calculated data relating to impact force imparted to an object by a user. In a preferred embodiment the IFFS can be implemented in a boxing or martial arts configuration, where impact force(s) resulting from punches, kicks, and the like are displayed to a user.
US09227127B2 Martial arts training apparatus
Apparatus (10) for use in martial arts or fitness training, comprises a strike surface adapted to be kicked or punched by a user during training, and mounting means (12) adapted for removably securing the strike surface (11) to a structural element, such as a door frame. The mounting means (12) are shaped and dimensioned so as to receive the structural element, and comprise at least one inflatable bladder (16) adapted upon inflation to cause the mounting means (12) to grip the structural element.
US09227125B2 Basketball return apparatus
A basketball return apparatus comprising a frame, an attachment section, one or more flaps, and a basketball return mechanism. The attachment section, which is no smaller than a basketball hoop, is connected to the frame and configured to attach to a basketball hoop. The attachment section includes one or more sensors that detect and record the number of basketball shots passing through the basketball hoop. The one or more flaps are connected to the attachment section, and are configured to tilt downwardly and inwardly towards the attachment section. The one or more flaps, which are connected to and positioned around the attachment section, are flexible to absorb the momentum of an incoming basketball and are capable of directing the basketball towards the attachment section. The one or more flaps include one or more sensors that detect and record the data generated by the contacts caused by incoming basketballs contacting the one or more flaps. Based on the number recorded by the one or more sensors at the attachment section and the data recorded by the one or more sensors at the one or more flaps, the shooting statistics, such as the number of basketball shots attempted, made, or missed, are thereby obtained. The basketball return mechanism, comprising a sloped chute, is positioned below the basketball hoop such that a basketball passing through the basketball hoop is directed to a desired direction as directed by the sloped chute.
US09227124B1 Apparatus and method for training a baseball pitcher
The disclosure relates to a baseball pitcher training apparatus for training a pitcher in controlling his lower and upper body portions in the movement sequence of the human body associated with throwing a baseball during the pitch preparation phase as well as the delivery and follow-through phase to conserve stress or strain in the arm and leg muscles. The apparatus has a pitching mound and a frame structure comprising two vertical post assemblies connected at the top by a horizontal cross beam assembly. Light bag weights are suspended from the cross beam assembly. The pitcher learns his body mechanics from following a pitching line indicated by the light bag weights and gauging his position by calibration marks on the pitching mound.
US09227122B2 Game system and method for hitting a ball through a playing field
The present invention is directed to a game, and more specifically to an outdoor game designed for two or more players that requires navigating a large playing field containing a variety of objects and obstacles. The players navigate the course by hitting a ball with a bat over, through or around the objects while avoiding the obstacles. The starting line, the end line, the game course, the rules for the game and the point system to decide the winner are determined and communicated to the players prior to the game. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the player reaching the end line with the fewest strokes is awarded the win. The preferred playing field is a golf course.
US09227121B1 Self-supporting pocket molding device for lacrosse sticks
A self-supporting pocket molding device for lacrosse sticks includes a weight ballasted hollow base, a support portion atop the base, and at least a hemisphere approximately the size of lacrosse ball at the top distal end. The base is preferably of a conical shape and the end sphere is attached up from the ground for ergonomic considerations of ease of use in a standing or sitting position. The shape of the self-supporting pocket molding device insures totally unencumbered access to the top surface of the sphere where the netting is easily forced down at the desired location to stretch the net forming a pocket. Both hands of the user are free to be used to hold the lacrosse stick or head; which also affords the ability to tilt the head as desired to stretch the netting in any sideways direction to correct any local deformation of the netting.
US09227120B2 Cover for handle grip
A cover for a shaft having a grip on one end is provided. The cover may include a cap having a base and a protrusion that extends from the base. The cover may further include a sleeve for covering at least a portion of the grip that extends from the cap. The sleeve may have a first end seated against the cap and a second free end. A cover for insertion into a shaft is also provided. Such a cover may include a cap insertable into an end of the shaft and a sleeve that extends from the cap. The sleeve may have a first end attached to the cap and a second free end. A combination of the shaft and the cover is also provided.
US09227115B2 Putter with integral sightline and sole plate
A putter having a body with a striking surface, an upper surface that is visible to player when in the address position and a sole plate that is coupled to a bottom surface of the body. The upper surface includes at least one aperture and the sole plate includes a sightline projection that extends into the aperture to form a sightline on the putter that is visible to the player.
US09227107B2 Hand exercise device
A hand exercise device comprising a base with a generally planar surface, and at least one string held at a substantial angle of inclination with respect to the planar surface of the base. The hand exercise device can be adapted to perform hand exercises that involve applying a pushing force to move the string such that the string is in contact with the planar surface of the base. The hand exercise device can be modified to include a plurality of strings of different thicknesses held at a substantial angle of inclination to facilitate variable exercise resistance. The hand exercise device can benefit patients by increasing grip strength, improving hand function, and/or alleviating joint pain.
US09227104B2 Jaw and facial muscle exercising device
A jaw exercise device includes a generally arcuate central elastomer plate with generally planar surfaces in opposed relationship. The planar surfaces have a plurality of protuberances depending therefrom; each protuberance being generally cylindrical in shape with each having an axis oriented to be perpendicular to the generally planar surface from which it depends. Each protuberance has protuberance walls, the walls having a protuberance height between a protuberance crown and a protuberance base. Two arcuate U-shaped channels are configured each to receive teeth of one of an upper or lower jaw of the user, within the channel. Each U-shaped channel defines a plurality of receptacles. Each receptacle located in a manner to receive, when urged into mating engagement with the central elastomer plate, a corresponding one of the protuberances.
US09227103B2 Fitness device
A fitness device includes a body, a pedaling unit, a rotating unit, a seat unit, and at least one coupling unit. The coupling unit is pivotally mounted to the base and is coaxially aligned with the axle. The coupling unit is engaged with the rotating unit such that the rotating unit coaxially rotates with the coupling unit for driving the seat unit to convert between a first position in which the seat unit is located away from the base, and a second position in which the seat unit is located proximate to the base. A vertical distance and a horizontal distance between the seat unit and the pedaling unit are altered when converting between the first and second positions. By rotating the rotating unit, the horizontal and vertical distances between the seat and pedaling units are altered for allowing users to exercise in an upright posture or a recumbent posture.
US09227101B2 Endless belt multi-function training system
A training apparatus having an endless belt is provided. The apparatus provides a treadmill operable to simulate a variety of high intensity exercises. In particular, the apparatus is designed to simulate high intensity pushing and pulling exercises. The system includes forward and rearward mounts for attaching accessories to facilitate various training exercises. The system also includes a drive control with multiple flywheels for providing variable resistance to rotation of the treadmill.
US09227100B2 Portable physical therapy exercise support stand
A portable exercise support stand includes a base from which extend first and second vertical support members, each having upward ends and a resilient, elastic member having ends attached to the upward ends of the first and second support members.
US09227098B2 Fire-extinguishing composition
The invention is directed to a fire-extinguishing composition comprising an oxidant, a secondary fuel and a phenol-formaldehyde resin, wherein the phenolformaldehyde resin molecule contains more than 3 aromatic ring structures and its use to extinguish a fire, especially a fire in an enclosed space. The invention is also directed to a process to prepare such a composition and to the use of the composition to extinguish a fire by an aerosol which is formed during burning of the composition.
US09227095B2 Clothes dryer vent coupling
A clothes dryer vent coupling system for connecting the vent outlet of a clothes dryer to an exhaust pipe in a room wall includes a rectangular housing secured to the wall and includes sides and a front wall. An outlet coupling on one side of the housing is connected to the exhaust pipe through rigid or flexible tubing. The front wall of the housing includes a round inlet opening facing forward. A connector coupling connected to the vent outlet at the back of the clothes dryer has a conical end but with openings therein. When the dryer is moved toward the room wall, the connector coupling is guided into and enters the inlet opening. Once in place, a rubber gasket around the connector coupling seals the coupling to the housing.
US09227093B2 Safety line anchor
An anchor arrangement for a safety line system is for use with a bracket to secure to a structure for mounting the safety line. The anchor arrangement either includes an alignment collar arranged to seat in a seat provided on the bracket, the alignment collar being able to seat in a plurality of different orientations with respect to the bracket; a resilient biasing means acting between the bracket and a reaction member provided as part of the anchor arrangement or a tension indicator for the safety line, which has a part of the bracket aligned adjacent and indicia zone on the anchor arrangement.
US09227089B1 Skin treatment for promoting hair growth
A volume of platelet-rich blood product is obtained from a volume of anti-coagulated blood to prepare a composition for promoting the growth of hair follicles within skin. A portion of the skin is traumatized to form a treatment area in which stem cells within the hair follicles are activated. A protein matrix is formed from the platelet-rich blood product composition to entrap growth factors. The platelet-rich blood product composition is infused into the treatment area to form a complex between the protein matrix and the growth factors so that the stem cells attach to the complex and proliferate within the hair follicles.
US09227086B2 High energy microbeam radiosurgery
A method of performing microbeam radiosurgery on a patient whereby target tissue within a patient is irradiated with high energy electromagnetic radiation via one or more microbeam envelopes with photons having respective energy magnitudes in excess of 200 keV, and maximum defined beam widths sufficiently narrow to yield a biological damage width which does not exceed a predetermined value.
US09227083B2 Device and method for radiation dosimetry
A method and a device for regulating a therapeutic beam directed at an object are provided. The method includes displaying at least one multidimensional image data record encompassing at least one target area of the object. The method also includes determining the treatment beam dosage directed at the at least one target area, and recording and optionally visualizing an isoline or isosurface dependent on the treatment beam dosage in the at least one multidimensional image data record. The method includes adjusting the isoline or isosurface such that the isoline or isosurface approximates a contour of the target area as closely as possible or corresponds to the contour, and regulating the treatment beam dosage by evaluation of the adjusted isoline or isosurface.
US09227082B2 Method and apparatus for acne treatment using low intensity light therapy
Disclosed is a system and method for treatment of skin disorders. More particularly, the disclosed invention is directed toward the reduction of acne and acne related bacteria using low-intensity light therapy. In an illustrative embodiment, skin containing acne bacteria is treated with a series of pulses of light from a light emitting diode. The LED has a dominant emissive wavelength of about 660 nm and an energy output of about 4 m W. The acne bacteria-containing tissue is exposed to pulses from the light source about 100 times for about 250 milliseconds per pulse, with an interpulse interval of about 100 milliseconds.
US09227080B2 Applicable device for healing injuries with magnetic fields
A medical device includes a substrate, a magnetic field emitter disposed on a side of the substrate, and an adhesive on the side of the substrate opposite the emitter.
US09227070B2 Cardiac stimulation with hemodynamic sensor guard
A method and system for regulating the operation of a cardiac pacemaker or defibrillator are disclosed. A processor receives signals of both an implanted hemodynamic sensor and intracardiac electrograms and digitizes them. The digitized signal of the hemodynamic sensor is used to prevent inappropriate cardiac stimulation and erroneous cardiac detection. The hemodynamic signal is also used to define arrhythmias.
US09227069B2 Atrial nerve stimulation with ventricular pacing
An implantable medical device senses atrial depolarizations having associated refractory periods thereafter and delivers electrical stimulation pulses during the associated refractory periods to stimulate the atrioventricular (AV) node to cause a prolonged conduction time of an atrial depolarization to a ventricular chamber. The device delivers a pacing pulse to a first ventricular chamber during the prolonged conduction time to cause a contraction and associated refractory period of the first ventricular chamber, the first ventricular chamber contraction occurring earlier than a contraction of a second ventricular chamber.
US09227067B2 Systems, devices, and methods for monitoring and analyzing research animal behavior before, during and after brain electrical stimulation
Described are systems, devices and methods for facilitating the delivery of stimulation to, and the monitoring and recording of physiological signals (e.g., electroencephalographic signals) from a research subject. Devices include a headmount that includes a cranial frame and a headstage, and a connection between the headmount and external equipment used for stimulation, monitoring, and/or recording that is robust physically and electrically to optimize stimulation, monitoring and recording even while the subject remains ambulatory. In some embodiments, a hinged headmount allows the configuration to be easily manipulated during attachment and any subsequent adjustment or reattachment procedures and permits easy access to any wires or other components implanted in the subject. In some embodiments, a flexible cable extends out from the headmount at an acute angle relative to a horizontal plane of the headmount, to optimize strain relief as the subject moves about while attached to any stimulation, monitoring and/or recording equipment.
US09227065B2 Method for programming implantable device
A programming system for selecting an electrode configuration for use in a medical electrical stimulator coupled to an electrode array. A programmer is configured for providing a set of electrode configurations for the electrode array, automatically testing a first portion of the set of electrode configurations in a first order, allowing the selection of one or more of the tested electrode configurations, determining whether a suitable number of electrode configurations from among the first portion have been selected within a predefined interval, and automatically testing a second portion of the set of electrode configurations in a second order if the suitable number of electrode configurations from among the first portion are not selected within the predefined interval. The programmer may further allow the selection of the tested electrode configurations, and adjusting parameters during the testing, wherein the adjusting is controllably shared in parallel between a clinician and a patient.
US09227064B2 External button processor with a rechargeable battery
An external processor device is described for a hearing implant system. An external processor housing has a generally planar skin contacting surface and a central axis perpendicular to the skin contacting surface. A signal processor is located within the processor housing for developing an implant data signal. The processor housing also contains a transmitter coil for coupling the implant data signal across the skin to the implantable prosthetic system. A battery container forms an annular compartment around the central axis and contains a battery arrangement to provide electrical power to the signal processor and the transmitter coil.
US09227062B2 Systems and methods for synchronizing an operation of a middle ear analyzer and a cochlear implant system
An exemplary system for synchronizing an operation of a middle ear analyzer and a cochlear implant system includes 1) a mapping facility configured to maintain mapping data representative of an association between a plurality of sound levels and a plurality of current levels and between a plurality of frequencies and a plurality of electrodes, 2) a detection facility configured to receive an acoustic signal transmitted by the middle ear analyzer and detect a sound level and a frequency of the acoustic signal, and 3) a processing facility configured to identify, based on the mapping data, a current level associated with the detected sound level and one or more electrodes associated with the detected frequency and direct the cochlear implant system to apply electrical stimulation having the identified current level to one or more stimulation sites within a patient by way of the identified one or more electrodes.
US09227059B2 Methods and apparatus for cochlear implant signal processing
An exemplary speech processor configured to be used in a cochlear implant system includes signal processing circuitry that 1) separates an incoming audio signal into a plurality of channels, wherein each channel included in the plurality of channels includes a channel signal included in a plurality of channel signals and representing a portion of the audio signal, 2) selects one or more channel signals from the plurality of channel signals that have a spectral power that exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the selected one or more channel signals corresponding to one or more channels included in the plurality of channels, and 3) designates only the one or more channels that correspond to the selected one or more channel signals to be used for stimulation representative of the incoming audio signal.
US09227057B2 Method of remote monitoring and modulation of medical apparatus
A method of remotely programming a cochlear implant comprises, at a remote patient location attendable by a patient, operatively coupling the cochlear implant to a remote programming computer configured to generate a signal to program the cochlear implant. The patient is provided with a remote video conferencing system configured to receive video and audio of a local operator remotely programming the cochlear implant to enable the patient to both hear and see a face of the local operator during programming to enable the patient to read lips of the local operator to supplement hearing of the patient in communicating with the local operator. At a local programming location, the local operator accesses a local programming computer that is communicationally coupled to the remote programming computer by which the local operator at the local programming location can interactively control the remote programming computer to program the cochlear implant.
US09227055B2 MRI-safe implantable medical device
A medical lead is provided for use in a pulse stimulation system of the type which includes a pulse generator for producing electrical stimulation therapy. The lead comprises an elongate insulating body and at least one electrical conductor within the insulating body. The conductor has a proximal end configured to be electrically coupled to the pulse generator and has a DC resistance in the range of 375-2000 ohms. At least one distal electrode is coupled to the conductor.
US09227054B2 Active fixation leads and method of assembly
An active fixation lead may have a lead body formed at least in part from an inner member and an outer sheath. The inner member may include a pace/sense lumen and one or more cable lumens. The inner member may include one or more longitudinally extending crumple zones that are configured to reduce stress within the pace/sense lumen that could otherwise be caused by compressive forces applied to the lead.
US09227053B2 Self expanding electrode cuff
An electrode lead assembly is described. The lead assembly includes an expandable cuff electrode that includes a series of spaced apart electrode elements and a substantially re-closable opening.
US09227049B2 Method of manufacturing electrical connection plug for a multipolar lead of an active implantable medical device
A method for constructing a plug for an electrical connection to a multipolar lead for an active implantable medical device includes providing a plug body having an insulating monobloc central core, the monobloc central core having a generally cylindrical shape, a cylindrical side surface, and a housing, providing a connection wire and a conductive pod, attaching the connection wire to the conductive pod, placing the conductive pod into the housing with connection wire extending therefrom, placing a conductive cylindrical ring on the cylindrical side surface, wherein the cylindrical side surface centers the conductive cylindrical ring coaxially about the monobloc central core, attaching the conductive pod to the cylindrical ring to create an electrical contact zone on a cylindrical outer surface of the plug body.
US09227047B2 Catheter connector
A catheter connector and method of use is disclosed. The catheter connector includes a body, a proximal end port, and a seal. The body has a proximal end and a distal end. Further, the body defines a hollow interior from the proximal end to the distal end. The hollow interior is configured to receive a catheter at least partially therethrough. The proximal end port includes a cavity and is configured with the proximal end of the body for mating communication with a fluid delivery device, such as a pump, reservoir, syringe, or the like. This port may have any conventional configuration, such as a Luer-lock fitting. The seal is configured within the interior of the body and includes a passage configured for receipt of the catheter. In addition, at least a portion of the seal is configured within the cavity of the proximal end port. Further, the seal is configured to compress around the catheter so as to axially secure the catheter within the body.
US09227046B1 Intravenous line coupling apparatus
An intravenous (IV) coupling apparatus is disclosed for fluid delivery to a patient. The coupling includes a tube having an input end and an output end, wherein the input end includes a plurality of input connections configured to releasably couple to one or more input lines in communication with one or more fluid sources, and the output end includes a plurality of output connections configured to releasably couple to one or more output lines configured to deliver fluid to the patient. The coupling includes a plurality of lumens disposed within the tube substantially along the length of the tube, wherein each lumen couples one of the input connectors in fluid communication with a corresponding output connector such that an input line is in fluid communication with a corresponding output line when the input line and output line are connected to a corresponding input connector and output connector.
US09227038B2 Catheter device with needle guard
The present disclosure relates to a catheter device comprising a catheter hub in which a valve member is disposed, a needle fixed in a needle hub, the needle extending through the valve member in the catheter hub in a ready position, and a tubular receptacle in which the needle hub is displaceably guided and biased by a spring in a proximal direction relative to the receptacle, wherein the needle hub is releasably held in the ready position in the receptacle against the force of the spring by frictional force between needle circumference and catheter or catheter hub, which frictional force is reduced on retraction of the needle through the catheter hub such that the force of the spring prevails.
US09227036B2 Irrigation catheter and a method of fabricating
A catheter sheath for an irrigation catheter comprises an elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end and defining a lumen extending from the proximal end to the distal end. At least one electrode is arranged on the elongate member. A plurality of elongate elements are contained in the elongate member, the elongate elements comprising at least one electrical conductor and at least one element of a non-conductive material arranged adjacent the at least one electrical conductor to form at least one non-conductive region associated with the elongate member. At least one passage extends through a wall of the elongate member to intersect the non-conductive region and to be in communication with the lumen of the elongate member. The at least one passage has an outlet opening in, or adjacent, the at least one electrode.
US09227035B2 Breathable gas apparatus with humidifier
A humidifier has a base unit with an engagement face that is configured to interface with a flow generator. The humidifier also has a tank configured to be removably received by the base unit and hold a volume of liquid. The tank has a side wall with an air inlet. The humidifier further has an air flow passage configured to receive an air connector of the flow generator at the engagement face of the base unit. The air flow passage is axially offset from a tank inlet. In addition, a cross-section of the airflow passage inlet and a cross-section of the tank air inlet are substantially perpendicular to a horizontal plane. In addition, a flexible face seal is positioned at an end of the air flow passage. An end of the face seal is configured to abut a side wall of the tank that includes the tank inlet when the tank is received in the base unit.
US09227033B2 Respiratory mask assembly
A respiratory mask assembly for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a mask frame having a first cooperating interlocking structure; a mask cushion provided to the frame; a cushion clip to retain the mask cushion on the mask frame, the cushion clip having a second cooperating interlocking structure and being selectively attachable to and detachable from the mask frame, the first and second cooperating interlocking structures interlocking to secure the cushion clip on the mask frame; and an elbow joint provided to the frame and having a swivel tube adapted to connect to a gas delivery conduit. The first and second cooperating interlocking structures include a tab-recess arrangement in which a plurality of tabs are engageable within respective recesses.
US09227032B2 Method and apparatus for improving CPAP patient compliance
A method of operating a device for treating sleep disordered breathing (SDB), wherein the device provides continuous positive airway pressure during sleep, includes applying a treatment pressure to a patient, monitoring the patient for speech output, generating a signal in response to detected speech of the patient, and, in response to the signal, reducing the treatment pressure applied to the patient.
US09227031B2 Nasal delivery device
A drinking actuated device for delivering a substance to the nasal cavity of a subject, comprising: a container for containing the substance; a nosepiece extending from the device for placement in proximity to the nose of a subject, with the nosepiece in fluid communication with the container; a valve mechanically connectable to the container, characterized by an active configuration and an inactive configuration; and a trigger mechanism adapted to reversibly reconfigure the valve from the active configuration to the inactive configuration. The mouthpiece is fluidly connectable to by means of a tubule to a fluid reservoir containing a fluid. Drawing liquid from the reservoir into the mouth via the mouthpiece reconfigures the valve from the inactive configuration to the active configuration for a predetermined period of time in response to the pressure gradient generated by the suction applied by the subject to the tubule.
US09227025B2 Infusion data communication system
An infusion data communication system provides a communication link among a fluid container, an infusion pump, and a patient through which identification data may be communicated. Data devices are located at the fluid container and the patient and conduct low frequency RF energy at a low power level containing the data into the medical fluid. The data-laden RF energy propagates through the medication fluid to data readers at the infusion pump which receives the RF energy and reads the data. A comparison is made to verify that the right medication is mounted to the infusion pump for administration to the right patient. RFID devices may be used for the data devices and readers. Pump programming data may also be propagated to the infusion pump from the container RFID tag. The RFID device at the patient may be writable and may be used to store a patient MAR.
US09227020B2 Disposable remote injection syringe for use with an endoscope
A disposable remote-injection syringe comprises a syringe needle (2), an inner tube (3), an outer tube (4) and a casing (10), the syringe needle (2) being arranged on one end of the inner tube (3), the inner tube (3) being arranged in the outer tube (4), the outer tube (4) being connected with the casing (10).
US09227013B2 Device for insertion of a cannula of an infusion device and method
A device for inserting a needle used to introduce a cannula can include a housing including a closed end, an open end, and an arm including a tab extending from the open end, and a sleeve configured to be placed against the patient's skin, the sleeve defining a slot extending along a length of the sleeve, and a barb positioned adjacent to an end of the slot. The slot is sized to receive at least a portion of the arm and the tab of the housing so that the arm and the tab of the housing slides within the slot as the housing is moved relative to the sleeve, and the barb is positioned to engage the tab of the housing to limit movement of the housing relative to the sleeve. The device can also include a threaded portion of the housing extending towards the closed end of the housing.
US09227006B2 Non-penetrating nozzle
A device (10) administers a fluid (23) from a container (12) into a human cavity or animal cavity (66). The device includes a nozzle (20) configured to be placed in external contact with tissue surrounding an orifice (58) without penetrating the orifice. The nozzle includes a discharge opening (40), through which the fluid is ejected into the cavity, a base (24) disposed opposing the discharge opening, and a side wall (26) that extends from the discharge opening towards the base and configured so that the tissue surrounding the orifice conforms to the shape of the side wall to form a leaktight seal between the tissue and the orifice. An interior conduit (30) is disposed within the side wall and configured to deliver the fluid from the container to the discharge opening.
US09227002B1 Systems and methods for providing cavopulmonary support
Systems and methods for providing cavopulmonary support to a subject are provided that include and make use of a first inflatable extravascular cuff configured to be placed around a superior vena cava in the subject and a second inflatable extravascular cuff configured to be placed around an inferior vena cava in the subject. The system further includes a pump that is operably connected to both the first inflatable extravascular cuff and the second inflatable extravascular cuff, as well as a controller that is in communication with the pump. The controller receives one or more user-defined parameters and, in response to the user-defined parameters, independently controls the inflation and deflation of the first inflatable extravascular cuff and the second inflatable extravascular cuff to provide cavopulmonary support.
US09227000B2 Portable wound therapy system
A portable system for subatmospheric pressure therapy in connection with healing a surgical wound, includes a wound dressing dimensioned for positioning relative to a wound bed of a subject, a portable subatmospheric pressure mechanism dimensioned to be carried or worn by the subject and a container for collecting exudates from the wound bed removed under the subatmospheric pressure supplied by the subatmospheric pressure mechanism. The portable subatmospheric pressure mechanism includes a housing, a subatmospheric pressure source disposed within the housing and in fluid communication with the wound dressing to supply subatmospheric pressure to the wound dressing and a power source mounted to or within the housing for supplying power to actuate the subatmospheric pressure source.
US09226997B2 Biodegradable particle and method for producing the same
The present invention aims to provide a biodegradable particle capable of being molded without an aggregation or cohesion of the particles, capable of being carried or injected without clogging by an aggregation in a micro diameter tube such as of a catheter, needle or syringe mainly used in pharmaceutical and medical applications of which inner diameter is smaller than the particle size or in a blood vessel and capable of being smoothly degraded in a specified period of time so that degraded component can finally be absorbed or discharged in vitro. As means for solving the problem, the present invention provides a biodegradable particle characterized in that a compressive modulus of the particle in water saturated state is 10 MPa or less.
US09226993B2 Biomaterial scaffolds with keratin for tissue engineering
The present invention relates to methods for preparing porous natural or synthetic material scaffolds with keratin for improving cell affinity.
US09226991B2 Synthesis of bioceramic compositions
A process for the synthesis of a bioceramic composition comprising calcium phosphosilicate (CPS, Ca10(PO4)4(SiO4)2), the process comprising: providing calcium or a calcium-containing compound, a phosphorus-containing compound and a silicon-containing compound; and forming a precipitate by reacting the compounds in an aqueous phase at an alkali pH.
US09226986B2 Surgical sterilizing container and surgical fluid extraction device
A surgical sterilizing container is provided, having a bottom and a container wall. A through-opening is formed on the sterilizing container for the exchange of media. A valve device having an outlet valve is provided for opening and closing the through-opening. In order to remove fluid which has formed in the container interior while reducing the risk of germs penetrating into the container interior, the through-opening is formed in the container wall at a distance from the bottom, and the sterilizing container has a fluid lifting device for providing a fluid connection from the bottom to the outlet valve and for lifting fluid from the bottom to the outlet valve. A surgical fluid extraction device is also provided for use with a surgical sterilizing container having a container wall and a bottom.
US09226980B2 Azulene and azaazulene systems for imaging, monitoring and therapy
This invention is directed to non-benzenoid aromatic compounds. Other aspects include methods of using non-benzenoid aromatic compounds for imaging and phototherapeutic uses thereof. Non-benzenoid compounds provided herein generally have one or more substituent groups which allow tailoring of the spectral properties or provide photoreactivity or targeting ability.
US09226978B2 Method of treating ischemic disorders
Provided are methods of treating ischemic disorders in a subject includes administering stromal cell derived factor-1 (SDF-1) to ischemic tissue of the subject.
US09226977B2 Oncolytic vaccinia virus cancer therapy
Embodiments of the invention are directed methods that include a thymidine kinase deficient vaccinia virus. The methods include administering the vaccinia virus at increased viral concentrations. Further aspects of the invention include methods for inducing oncolysis or collapse of tumor vasculature in a subject having a tumor comprising administering to a subject at least 1×108 infectious viral particles of a TK-deficient, GM-CSF-expressing, replication-competent vaccinia virus vector sufficient to induce oncolysis of cells in the tumor.
US09226974B2 Antiproliferative compounds, conjugates thereof, methods therefor, and uses thereof
Antiproliferative compounds having a structure represented by formula (II), where n, R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5 are as defined herein, can be used to treat tumors, optionally when conjugated to a ligand such as an antibody:
US09226972B2 Targeted particles comprising landscape phage fusion proteins and heterologous nucleic acid
Disclosed are targeted particles comprising or consisting of a plurality of landscape phage fusion proteins complexed with heterologous nucleic acid, the landscape phage fusion proteins displaying a heterologous peptide and the targeted particle binding specifically to a target site. The particles may be utilized in methods for modulating expression of genes in target cells.
US09226970B2 Oligomer modified diaromatic substituted compounds
Disclosed are compounds comprising diaromatic substituted compound residues, namely the anti-viral (anti-HIV) drug delavirdine, covalently attached via a linkage to water-soluble, non-peptidic oligomers, specifically to poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) oligomers. A compound of the invention, when administered by any of a number of administration routes, exhibits advantages over non-oligomer modified diaromatic substituted compounds.
US09226969B2 Salt form of a multi-arm polymer-drug conjugate
Among other aspects, provided herein is a hydrohalide salt of a multi-arm water-soluble polyethylene glycol-drug conjugate, along with related methods of making and using the same. The hydrohalide salt is stably formed, and appears to be more resistant to hydrolytic degradation than the corresponding free base form of the conjugate.
US09226968B2 Carbohydrate-lipid constructs and their use in preventing or treating viral infection
The invention relates to selected carbohydrate-lipid constructs and their use as mimics of ligands for receptors expressed by virus. In particular, the invention relates to the use of selected carbohydrate-lipid constructs in methods of inhibiting virus infection and/or promoting clearance of virus from infected subjects. Carbohydrate-lipid constructs selected for use in these methods where the virus is Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) are provided.
US09226965B2 Method and composition for treating heart failure
A method and composition for treating, preventing or ameliorating heart failure, cardiac hypertrophy, and/or myocardial dysfunction includes administering a therapeutically effective amount of a HDAC inhibitor, such as phenylbutyrate, in combination with an ACE inhibitor, such as captopril.
US09226964B2 Antibodies against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and uses thereof
Anti-EGFR antibodies, therapeutic compositions comprising combinations of anti-EGFR antibodies, as well as methods for using such antibodies and compositions to treat EGFR-related disorders (e.g., cancers), are disclosed.
US09226961B2 Antibody formulation
The invention provides a stable aqueous pharmaceutical formulation comprising a therapeutically effective amount of an antibody, optionally, not subjected to prior lyophilization, a buffer maintaining the pH in the range from about 4.0 to about 6.0, and an optional surfactant, methods for making such a formulation, and methods of using such a formulation.
US09226960B2 FGF modulation of in vivo antibody production and humoral immunity
The invention provides methods for increasing or decreasing antibody production in vivo by inhibiting or promoting the activity of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) respectively.
US09226958B2 Use of Listeria vaccine vectors to reverse vaccine unresponsiveness in parasitically infected individuals
This invention relates to methods of using a Listeria vaccine vector to induce a Th1 immune response in subjects having persistent Th2 immune response profiles.
US09226957B2 Compositions and methods of enhancing immune responses
Provided herein are Salmonella enteritidis 13A strains and compositions comprising these strains. Also provided are methods of enhancing an immune response against Influenza A and methods of reducing morbidity associated with an Influenza A infection. Methods of enhancing an immune response to a vaccine vector by expressing a polypeptide of CD154 capable of binding CD40 are also disclosed. Methods of developing a bacterial vaccine vector are disclosed. Methods of generating scarless site-specific mutations in a bacterium are also disclosed.
US09226956B2 Immunization against Clostridium difficile disease
The invention provides active and passive immunization methods for preventing and treating Clostridium difficile infection, which involve percutaneous administration of C. difficile toxin-neutralizing polyclonal immune globulin, C. difficile toxoids, or combinations thereof. Also provided by the invention are C. difficile toxoids, C. difficile toxin-neutralizing polyclonal immune globulin, and methods of identifying subjects that produce C. difficile toxin-neutralizing polyclonal immune globulin.
US09226955B2 Allogeneic autophagosome-enriched composition for the treatment of disease
A composition, comprising: an enriched population of autophagosomes derived from a non-small cell lung carcinoma cell line, and wherein the enriched population of autophagosomes includes: one or more toll-like receptor agonists; one or more tumor antigens; and one or more damage-associated molecular pattern molecules. In this way, an off-the-shelf vaccine may be available to be administered in order to stimulate a targeted immune response in patients bearing different tumor types.
US09226954B2 Method for treating and confirming diagnosis of exertional compartment syndrome
Described is a new method of treating chronic compartment syndrome in a muscle of a mammal, particularly exertional compartment syndrome. The method includes introducing an effective amount of a nerve-blocking toxin, such as human botulinum toxin into the muscle. Further in addition to treating chronic or exertional compartment syndrome, a method is included and described in the disclosure of confirming diagnosis of exertional compartment syndrome in a muscle of a mammal. In the method, venous compression and/or expansion in a mammal in an area of a muscle having a symptom associated with exertional compartment syndrome is evaluated by comparing venous flow at rest and after stress on the muscle. An anaesthetic is used to block a nerve supplying motor function to the muscle causing compression of a blood vessel. The mammal is evaluated after the block of the nerve to determine if the symptom associated with exertional compartment syndrome is alleviated.
US09226950B2 Method and composition for treating diabetes mellitus
The present invention relates to a method or composition for glycemic control in a subject, which is effective for treating diabetes mellitus, comprising administering the subject with a pharmaceutical composition comprising a therapeutically effective amount of an aliphatic alcohol having a general formula of CH3(CH2)nCH2OH, wherein n is an integer from 10 to 40, such as tetracosanol, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
US09226947B1 Methods for treating microbial infection
A method for treating a microbial infection or an abscessed tissue in a subject includes administering to the subject an effective amount of a metal ion chelator. In some embodiments, the metal ion chelator can be a protein, such as a calprotectin heterodimer. In some embodiments, the metal ion chelator is a calprotectin heterodimer including an S100A8 polypeptide and an S100A9 polypeptide.
US09226946B2 Pharmaceutical combination for the treatment and/or chemosensibilization of refractory tumors to anticancer drugs
This invention is related to a pharmaceutical combination that contains a Casein kinase 2 (CK2) peptide inhibitor (termed P15) along with the standard chemotherapeutic drugs used in cancer treatment and which are administered together, separated or sequentially. The chemothearapeutic drugs include cisplatin, taxol, alkaloids from Vinca, 5-fluorouracil, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, etoposide, mitomycin C, imatinib, iressa and velcade (bortezomib). The synergism between the P15 peptide and the anticancer drugs achieves an efficient concentration of each cytostatic drug in the combination which is from 10- to 100-fold lower than that for each cytostatic drug alone. The pharmaceutical combination described in this invention exhibits lower toxicity compared to that reported by the anticancer therapeutics and therefore, it represents a crucial advantage for its use in cancer therapy. Furthermore, the sequential administration of this pharmaceutical combination through the pretreatment with the P15 peptide leads to the chemo sensibilization of refractory tumors to the anticancer therapeutics.
US09226937B2 Compositions containing resveratrol and nucleotides
A resveratrol-containing composition capable of providing a therapeutic benefit to a subject such as modulation of a biological activity, improving cell transplantation therapy, or improving macular degeneration or dystrophy treatments. The compositions comprise trans-resveratrol, a metal chelator, one or more additional antioxidants such as quercetin, gamma-tocotrienol, or apple polyphenols, allicin, and nucleotides.
US09226936B2 Methods and compositions for enhancing the therapeutic effect of anti-tumor T cells
Compositions, e.g., therapeutic agents, and methods are provided for modulating gene and protein expression of Forkhead Box protein 1 (Foxp1). The therapeutic agents include short nucleic acid molecules that modulate gene and protein expression of Forkhead Box protein 1 (Foxp1) expression, viral vectors containing such molecules, T cells transduced with these viruses for adoptive therapies, and any small molecules that bind to and inactivate Foxp1. These compounds and methods have applications in cancer therapy either alone or in combination with other therapies that stimulate the endogenous immune system in the environment of the cancer, e.g., tumor.
US09226935B2 Methods for modulating the expression and aggregation of a CAG-expanded gene product in cells and methods for identifying agents useful for doing the same
This invention provides a method for modulating the expression of a first gene in a cell wherein the first gene is one containing more than 36 CAG trinucleotide repeats and encoding a protein that form polyglutamine-mediated protein aggregation. Suppression of the first gene is achieved by reducing the expression of SPT4 gene or SUPT4H gene. It can also be achieved by inhibiting the formation of a Spt4/Spt5 complex or a Supt4h/Supt5h complex. Also provided is a method for identifying an agent useful for modulating the expression and aggregation of CAG-expanded gene product, or treating a polyglutamine disease such as Huntington's disease.
US09226934B2 Anti-cancer drug
The present invention is directed to an anti-cancer drug containing an anti-MFG-E8 antibody as an active ingredient, and to an anti-cancer drug which employs an anti-MFG-E8 antibody in combination with a cancer therapy employing an anti-cancer agent other than the anti-MFG-E8 antibody.
US09226933B2 Methods and compositions for treating lactose intolerance
The invention provides methods and compositions for treating lactose intolerance. In embodiments, the invention provides methods and composition for decreasing symptoms of lactose intolerance by administering to an individual suffering from lactose intolerance increasing doses of lactose using a protocol such that at the end of treatment the individual's symptoms of lactose intolerance are decreased and such that symptoms remain decreased after a period of time.
US09226926B2 Therapeutic agent for lower urinary tract disease
A method of treating a condition chosen from the group consisting of interstitial cystitis, cystitis, chronic nonbacterial prostatitis, chronic cystitis, prostatic hyperplasia, prostatitis, prostatism, bladder neck contracture, bladder inflammation, and overactive bladder by administering an amount of rebamipide or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof to a human.
US09226923B2 Spirocyclic molecules as protein kinase inhibitors
The present invention relates to spirocyclic compounds of formula I, namely spirocyclic (1H-pyrazol-4-yl)-3-(1-(2,6-dichloro-3-fluorophenyl)ethoxy)pyridin-2-amines having protein kinase inhibitory activity, and methods of synthesizing and using such compounds. Preferred compounds are c-Met and/or ALK inhibitors useful for the treatment of abnormal cell growth, such as cancers. R2 is selected from
US09226919B2 Methods for dosing an orally active 1,2,4-oxadiazole
The present invention relates to specific doses of and dosing regimens for using a 1,2,4-oxadiazole benzoic acid compound in treating or preventing diseases associated with nonsense mutations. In particular, the invention relates to specific doses and dosing regimens for the use of 3-[5-(2-fluoro-phenyl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl]-benzoic acid in mammals having diseases associated with nonsense mutations.
US09226917B2 Photodynamic therapy for conditions of the eye
The use of a combination of photodynamic therapy and an anti-VEGF agent in the treatment of conditions characterized by unwanted choroidal neovasculature is described. These conditions include wet age-related macular degeneration Preferred anti-VEGF agents are antibodies such as bevacizumab or ranibizumab Photosensitizers may be selected from green porphyrins such as BPD-MA (verteporfin) and the photodynamic activation of the photo sensitizer may be accomplished using a reduced fluence rate. The use may further comprises an anti-inflammatory agent such as dexamethasone.
US09226911B2 Method of reducing weight using composition containing fucoxanthin extract
A method of reducing a weight of a subject includes administering to the subject in need thereof a composition comprised of fucoxanthin extract and at least one selected from the group consisting of tocotrienol, fucoidan and a combination thereof, wherein the subject is a mammal.
US09226910B2 Treatment for obesity
The present invention relates to a method for treating or preventing obesity in a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of certain carbamate compounds. The invention further relates to methods for reducing body weight and/or reducing food intake in a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of certain carbamate compounds.
US09226907B2 Extended release hydrocodone acetaminophen and related methods and uses thereof
The present invention generally provides a method of treatment and improvement of quality of life for patients adversely affected by various pain conditions. One preferred embodiment provides a method of treatment of acute pain, moderate to moderately severe pain, chronic pain, non-cancer pain, osteoarthritic pain, bunionectomy pain or lower back pain in a patient in need thereof, comprising providing at least one or two dosage form having about 15 mg of hydrocodone and its salt and about 500 mg of acetaminophen, once, twice or thrice daily. Preferably, the dosage form is about 30 mg of hydrocodone and about 1000 mg of acetaminophen taken twice daily. Alternatively, the dosage form is about 15 mg of hydrocodone and about 500 mg of acetaminophen taken twice daily.
US09226904B2 Pharmacological treatment of Parkinson's disease
The present invention relates to the co-administration of two neurotransmitter agonists to patients with motor disorders, for the purpose of symptom reduction. In particular the present invention provides methods and compositions for alleviation of akinesia, rigidity and/or tremor associated with Parkinson's disease.
US09226903B2 Transdermal therapeutic system comprising an adhesive layer method for siliconizing the back layer or the system and use of said back layer
The invention relates to a transdermal therapeutic system which comprises a backing layer, an adhesive layer, a polymer layer and a removable protective layer. The adhesive layer is an organosiloxane layer and is anchored in the backing layer by siliconization.
US09226898B1 Submicron particles for the treatment of radiation damage in patients
A method of treating a patient exposed to radiation before the patient is thrombocytopenic, comprising: intravenous infusion of protein spheres at a concentration of the protein spheres sufficient to reduce the morbidity and mortality of the irradiated patient, wherein the protein spheres are formed from soluble proteins without the addition of surfactants or detergents, and the protein spheres spontaneously and directly bind at least one coagulation factor without the aid of other molecules which specifically bind the at least one coagulation factor.
US09226897B2 Self-assembling nanoparticles for the release of bisphosphonates in the treatment of human cancers
The present invention describe nanocomplexes also called auto-assembling nanoparticles comprising biphosphonates, lipid nanovectors and inorganic nanovectors.In particular the invention describes zoledronic acid complexed with calcium phosphate base nanoparticles; said particles in their turn mixed with lipidic particles e.g. liposomes.Said nanocomplexes are useful, and showed to be efficient in vivo, as pharmaceutical formulations of biphosphonates for the treatment or prevention of tumor growth and/or metastasis. Tumors can be solids and/or haematological such as prostate, lung, head/neck, colon, liver, breast, pancreas, kidneys, bladder, male and female urogenital tract, bones, multiple myeloma, primitive and secondary tumors of the central nervous system and lymphomas.
US09226895B2 Methods and kits for cleaning and remineralizing teeth
Methods and associated kits for use in selectively conditioning and remineralizing teeth. An exemplary method comprises the steps of applying a conditioning composition to one or more of a person's teeth, and applying a remineralizing composition to the person's teeth. The conditioning composition includes a conditioning agent, and the remineralizing composition includes a remineralizing agent comprising calcium ions and/or fluoride ions. The conditioning composition may be applied prior to or after application of the remineralizing composition. In one embodiment, both the conditioning composition and the remineralizing composition include different remineralizing ions (e.g., one including calcium, one including fluoride).
US09226893B2 Method for storing silica-based material, package produced with the method and use of package for packaging of silica-based products
A method for storing a water-soluble undissolved silica-based material, optionally with an incorporated functional agent. The method includes immersing the material in an aqueous liquid phase which is initially saturated with a water-soluble silica-based material which is the same or different than the undissolved silica-based material, such that the undissolved silica-based material does not essentially dissolve into the liquid phase during storage, or the proportion of the amount of the initially undissolved silica-based material to the amount of the liquid phase is such that the liquid phase will be saturated or essentially saturated by a dissolved portion of the water-soluble undissolved silica-based material during storage, which dissolved portion of said water soluble undissolved silica-based material is less than 20%. Also disclosed is a storage package which may preferably be used to store functional agents, delivery devices or implants.
US09226891B2 Anti-flush compositions
Disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions having a portion of aspirin for intraoral release and another aspirin for gastrointestinal release. The compositions can further include niacin. Methods of using such compositions to treat diseases or conditions suitably treated by niacin are also provided which result in reduced flushing.
US09226889B2 Silicone acrylate and acrylic acid thickening polymer reducing the stickiness of glycerine-based cosmetic formulas
An anionic polyelectrolyte resulting from the polymerization: a) of a mass ratio greater than or equal to 80% and less than or equal to 99.5% of monomeric units from a monomer with a weak acid function; b) of a mass ratio greater than or equal to 0.5% and less than or equal to 20%, —Either of a monomer of formula (Ia): R—(CH2)3—Si(CH3)2—[O—Si(CH3)2—]nO—Si(CH3)2—(CH2)3—R (Ia), wherein R represents the monovalent radical: —(O—CH2—CH2-)x[O—CH2—CH(CH3)-]yO—C(═O)—CH═CH2, —Or of a monomer of formula (Ib): Si(CH3)3—[O—Si(CH3)2—]m[O—Si(CH3)[(CH2)3—R]—]pO—Si(CH2)3 (Ib), c) optionally of a mass ratio greater than 0% and less than or equal to 5% of monomeric units from at least one monomer of formula (II): R2—C(═O)—O—[(CH2—CH(R4)—O]m—R3 (II), d) optionally of a mass ratio greater than 0% and less than or equal to 5% of at least one monomer with diethylenic or polyethylenic cross-linking; method for the preparation thereof and use as a thickener in topical compositions.
US09226888B2 Compositions containing an acrylic film former, a tackifier and an ester
The invention relates to a composition, especially a cosmetic composition, comprising at least one ester of polyol(s) and of fatty diacid dimer or an ester thereof, at least one acrylic film forming agent and at least one tackifier, as well as to methods of using such compositions.
US09226887B2 Long-lasting easy wash-off cosmetic compositions
Cosmetic compositions are provided, which are capable of forming a cosmetic film on a human integument when applied thereto. Cosmetic compositions according to the invention typically include a cosmetically acceptable vehicle, optionally, one or more colorants, and a pH-dependant film-forming polymer of poly(methacrylic acid-co-methyl methacrylate) having a ratio of methacrylic acid to methyl methacrylate of about 1:1 to about 1:2, an acid value of from about 150 to about 350 mg KOH/g, and a weight average molar mass between about 100,000 and about 150,000 g/mol. The compositions are capable of forming an adherent film on a human integument that is substantially resistant to removal by water at a first pH, but readily dispersible or soluble in water at a second pH higher than said first pH.
US09226883B2 Particular azomethine direct dyes, dye composition comprising at least one such compound, implementation process therefore and use thereof
The present invention relates to direct dyes of azomethine type of formula (I) below; and also to the use thereof for dyeing keratin fibers, in particular human keratin fibers such as the hair. The invention also relates to a composition for dyeing keratin fibers, comprising such direct dyes in a suitable dyeing medium. Similarly, a subject of the invention is a process for dyeing keratin fibers using the said dye composition, and also a device comprising the same. Finally, the present invention also relates to precursors of these direct dyes.
US09226875B2 Multi-container transfer and delivery device
A multi-container transfer and delivery device configured to allow multiple containers to transfer and mix their respective materials and for receiving of the mixed materials to a delivery device. The transfer device comprises a plurality of flow conduits for fluid flow between the multiple containers and the delivery device. Methods of mixing using the device and methods of sterilizing the device are described. A drug mixing kit comprising a multi-container housing with a plurality of flow conduits and a plurality of compartments for receiving containers and a transfer device is also described.
US09226872B2 Apparatus for treating and/or preventing diseases and functional disorders of external genital organs
The present invention relates to a method for treatment and/or prevention of diseases and functional disorders of external genital organs and a device for realizing the same. The method comprises exposure of an organ to periodic action of vacuum oscillations and a light field and is characterized in that the organ is additionally exposed to low-frequency pulsed magnetic field and the light exposure of different wavelengths is combined. One of the embodiment of the device comprises a source of vacuum with a periodic controlling device, an isolated chamber adapted to accommodate a to-be-exposed organ therein, a source of a low-frequency pulsed magnetic field with an inductor generating a magnetic field in the place of location of the organ to be subjected to exposure. The claimed embodiment is characterized in that it additionally comprises a light exposure source with different wavelengths and a device for synchronizing and combining the light exposure.
US09226870B2 Portable electronic apparatus having vision care functions
A portable electronic apparatus has a portable electronic device, a lens assembly, a control unit and a display module. The portable electronic device has a shell with a chamber and an opening communicating with the chamber. The lens assembly is mounted in the opening of the shell. The display module is mounted in the chamber of the shell. The control unit is mounted in the portable electronic device to control the display module to project various object images into a user's eyes. The user can exercise the eyes by releasing the eye muscles, tightening the eye muscles, rolling the eyes upwards, downwards, leftwards, rightwards, or rolling the eyes circularly when the user looks at the projected object images. Vision defects, such as myopia and astigmatism, can be relieved.
US09226869B2 Height adjustment device for a handle of a rollator
The invention concerns a height adjustment device (1) for a handle (4) of a rollator, comprising: —an inner tube (2) telescopically received in an outer tube (3), the handle (4) of the rollator being connected at the upper end of said inner tube (2), —a locking assembly (10) adapted to lock the inner tube (2) in a fixed position with regard to the outer tube (3), —an unlocking assembly (20) adapted to unlock the inner tube (2) from said fixed position.
US09226867B2 External structural brace apparatus
An external structural brace apparatus and method for supporting a user on a surface and for the user to ambulate along the surface to relieve shoulder, armpit, hand, foot, and wrist loads, the apparatus includes first and second support beams that each have a telescoping cantilever beam that contacts the surface. The first and second support beams have a primary pivotal couple at one end to one another with a mechanism to create opposite symmetrical movement of the beams. An attachment element supports the user at their torso has a secondary pivotal connection to the first and second beams and third and fourth user handles that are pivotally attached to the first and second beams are for grasping by the user to extend and retract the telescoping cantilever beams to and from the surface at reduced and increased extension and retraction rates for user ease of ambulating along the surface.
US09226866B2 Speech therapy device
A speech therapy device configured to be placed in a mouth of a speaker. The speech therapy device includes a first bite plate and a second bite plate disposed opposite the first bite plate. The speech therapy device further includes at least one connecting member disposed between the first bite plate and the second bite plate. A method for using the speech therapy device is also provided.
US09226861B2 Converting lines and methods for fabricating both taped and pant diapers comprising substantially identical chassis
In one embodiment, taped and pant articles of the present disclosure may comprise first and second chassis that are at least substantially identical.
US09226860B2 Disposable absorbent articles having an interior design signal
Disposable absorbent article comprising an interior design signal indicating absorbency and an absorbent core including first and second absorbent layers, the first absorbent layer including a first substrate and the second absorbent layer including a second substrate, the first and second absorbent layers further including absorbent particulate polymer material deposited on the first and second substrates and thermoplastic material covering the absorbent particulate polymer material on the respective first and second substrates, the first and second absorbent layers combined together such that at least a portion of the thermoplastic material of the first absorbent layer contacts at least a portion of the thermoplastic material of the second absorbent layer, the absorbent particulate polymer material is disposed between the first and second substrates in an absorbent particulate polymer material area, and the absorbent particulate polymer material is substantially continuously distributed across the absorbent particulate polymer material area.
US09226856B2 Inflatable medical interfaces and other medical devices, systems, and methods
An inflatable mask with two ocular cavities can seal against a user's face by forming an air-tight seal around the periphery of the user's eye socket. The sealed air-tight ocular cavity can be pressurized to take ocular measurements. The mask can conform to the contours of a user's face by inflating or deflating the mask. In addition, the distance between the user and a medical device (e.g. an optical coherence tomography instrument) can be adjusted by inflating or deflating the mask. Also disclosed herein is an electronic encounter portal and an automated eye examination. Other embodiments are also described.
US09226855B2 Steerable laser probe
A steerable laser probe may include an actuation structure, a nosecone fixed to the actuation structure by one or more links and one or more link pins, a flexible housing tube, and an optic fiber disposed in the flexible housing tube and the actuation structure. A compression of the actuation structure may be configured to gradually curve the flexible housing tube and the optic fiber. A decompression of the actuation structure may be configured to gradually straighten the flexible housing tube and the optic fiber.
US09226847B2 Arterial cooling elements for use with a cervical immobilization collar
A kit for cooling the blood in the carotid arteries includes a cervical immobilization collar and a cooling element. The cooling element may include a body-facing panel attached on a body-facing surface to a lining layer, an outward-facing panel, and cooling material disposed between the body-facing panel and the outward facing panel. The cooling material may comprise urea and Carbamakool™ in an amount sufficient to produce a temperature of 20° F. to 35° F. within a minute of activation when measured on the body-facing surface of the body-facing panel.
US09226841B1 Orthopedic field splint
A splint includes a first substantially flexible member having an inner surface and an outer surface. A second substantially flexible member has an inner surface and an outer surface, and is hingedly attached to the first substantially flexible member. An attachment strap is slidably attached to the outer surface of the first or the second substantially flexible member, and is configured for longitudinal movement relative to the first and second substantially flexible members. A substantially rigid slat is removably mounted relative to at least one of the first and second substantially flexible members.
US09226840B2 Magnetically coupled implantable pump system and method
A magnetically coupled, implantable pump system comprises an external controller and an implantable device. A non-implantable magnet in an external controller produces a magnetic field that couples the non-implantable magnet to a magnet in the implantable device. A non-implantable motor moves the non-implantable magnet in a rotational direction. When the non-implantable magnet moves in the rotational direction, a piston coupled to the magnet moves within the implantable device. As the piston moves, an amount of fluid from a reservoir in the implantable device moves out of the reservoir and into an inflatable portion of a gastric band. The implantable device may also move fluid out of the inflatable portion of the gastric band.
US09226839B1 Torque sleeve
The present disclosure describes an assembly comprising a catheter, an expandable device in a collapsed configuration on the catheter, a first releasable sleeve coaxially covering a proximal portion of the device, and a second releasable sleeve coaxially covering a distal portion of the device, wherein first and second sleeves overlap and are rotatably constrained relative to each other, and wherein the second sleeve is rotatably constrained relative to the catheter. During deployment, rotation of the catheter causes rotation of the second sleeve and the device for angular radial orientation. After deployment, the first sleeve may remain implanted in the patient.
US09226837B2 Intervertebral disc and insertion methods therefor
A method of inserting an intervertebral disc implant into a disc space includes accessing a spinal segment having a first vertebral body, a second vertebral body and a disc space between the first and second vertebral bodies. The method includes securing a first pin to the first vertebral body and a second pin to the second vertebral body, using the first and second pins for distracting the disc space, and providing an inserter holding the intervertebral disc implant. The method also desirably includes engaging the inserter with the first and second pins, and advancing the inserter toward the disc space for inserting the intervertebral disc implant into the disc space, whereby the first and second pins align and guide the inserter toward the disc space.
US09226833B2 Intervertebral implant devices
Spinal implants for positioning between adjacent vertebrae. Some embodiments may comprise a pair of opposed sidewall surfaces, a pair of opposed frictional surfaces, a first end wall joining the pair of opposed sidewall surfaces, and a second end wall recessed at least in part and joining the pair of opposed sidewall surfaces. A fish-tailed structure may be positioned within the second end wall when viewed from one of the opposed frictional surface. The fish-tailed structure may be formed so as to extend at least substantially uninterrupted between at least one of the opposed sidewall surfaces and the opposed frictional surfaces. A retention structure, such as a hole, may be positioned within the fish-tailed structure. The hole may be configured to engage a surgical implantation device.
US09226831B2 Intervertebral implant
An intervertebral spacer for therapeutic treatment of a patient includes at least one link sized and dimensioned to fit within an intervertebral space in the patient, and is configured to maintain a separation of two adjacent vertebrae for a period of time. A rigid guiding object, which may be a tool or a successive link, is insertable into the patient, to guide other links into the patient using an MIS approach. A pivot is connected between successive links, or between a guide tool and a link, configured to limit a relative range of angular orientation between the link and the guiding tool, or successive links. Multiple links are so joined to form a chain pushable by the last link, and pullable by the first link, to form a chain which may be formed into a curved configuration corresponding to the patient's intervertebral space.
US09226830B2 Device and method for retroversion correction for shoulder arthroplasty
A kit for implanting a glenoid component in one embodiment includes a retroversion glenoid component including a generally flat glenoid bone contacting surface defining a first plane, a first offset peg extending away from the glenoid bone contacting surface, a concave articulating surface, an upper surface extending about the concave articulating surface and generally opposite to the glenoid bone contacting surface, the upper surface defining a second plane, the second plane angled with respect to the first plane, and a drill guide configured to guide a drill in forming a bore in a scapula to receive the first offset peg.
US09226829B2 Rotary joint prosthesis having a reinforced bearing bush
A joint prosthesis comprises a distal component for anchoring to a first bone, a proximal component for anchoring to a second bone, and a coupling piece that, together with the first component, forms a flexion bearing around a first axis and, together with the second component, forms a rotary bearing formed by the pin and the bearing bush around a second axis oriented transversely to the first axis. The rotary bearing comprises a multi-layer bearing insert, having a sliding sleeve surrounding the pin and a support sleeve that encloses said sliding sleeve and is fastened to the coupling piece by means of a securing element, wherein the securing element comprises an actuation unit within the support sleeve and can be connected to the coupling piece such as to ensure tensile strength by means of two aligned bores in the support sleeve and the coupling piece.
US09226828B2 Devices and methods for stabilizing tissue and implants
An implant for repairing a joint between a first bone and a second bone includes a first section constructed of a substantially rigid material and a graft constructed of soft tissue having a first end and a second end. The first section has a first end surface configured for positioning against the first bone. The graft is configured for stabilizing the first section relative to the first bone. A first fastener is configured for mounting to the graft and the first section to anchor the graft to the first section. A second fastener is configured for mounting to the graft and the first bone to anchor the graft to the first bone.
US09226826B2 Transcatheter valve structure and methods for valve delivery
A valved stent including a stent structure having a generally tubular body portion with an interior area, a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis; a valve structure including a plurality of leaflets and positioned within the interior area of the stent structure; and an invertible structure extending from one of the first and second ends of the stent structure. The invertible structure can be rotatable relative to the end of the stent structure from which it extends.
US09226823B2 Valve prosthesis
A heart valve prosthesis and delivery systems are provided for replacing a cardiac valve. The heart valve prosthesis includes a self-expanding frame includes a portion having a crimp that provides additional flexibility to the self-expanding frame in the collapsed configuration.
US09226820B2 Axially anchoring collapsible and re-expandable prosthetic heart valves for various disease states
A stent (10) for use in a prosthetic heart valve has an annulus section (12) adapted for placement within the ′ leaflets and annulus of the native heart valve. The annulus section has latch members (50) adapted to engage the leaflets of the native heart valve when prosthetic valve is implanted in the native valve. The latch members may hold the leaflets in engagement with the annulus section, and help to retain the prosthetic valve in position. The annulus section may have a non-circular cross-sectional shape.
US09226819B2 Intraocular lens delivery device with a multi-part plunger tip
The present invention is directed to the provision of an intraocular lens delivery device having a plunger with a multi-part plunger tip. The plunger tip includes a first part and a second part wherein the first part releases from the second part during travel of the plunger through the body of a delivery cartridge.
US09226818B2 Sensors for triggering electro-active ophthalmic lenses
An electro-active ophthalmic lens includes an electromyography sensor, a processor, and an electro-active optical element. The electromyography sensor is configured to detect an electric field in a ciliary muscle of the eye that is proportional to a force exerted by the ciliary muscle and to generate a sensor signal indicative of the electric field. The processor is operable to receive the signal from the electromyography sensor and to determine, based on the sensor signal, an adjustment to optical power for an electro-active optical element and to generate a control signal for the electro-active optical element. The electro-active optical element is operable to receive the control signal and to change an optical power of the electro-active optical element in response to the control signal.
US09226812B2 Biliary stent
The purpose of the present invention is to provide a biliary stent making it possible to sufficiently exhibit a valve function while reducing the entire length of the biliary stent as compared to conventional ones. The present invention is a biliary stent (1) including a stent body (10), a tubular membrane (30) on one end of the stent body (10) and having a bile outflow port (34), and two support members (40, 50) which at one end (42, 52) are connected to the one end of the stent body (10) and at the other end (44, 54) are connected to the vicinity of the bile outflow port (34).
US09226807B1 Tooth cleaning device
The present tooth cleaning device generally comprises a controllable fluid distributer coupled with the sink/bath faucet and by first connecting element with the first end of the flexible tube, the second end of which is coupled with the projection of the handle portion of the brush portion, which also includes the head portion comprising the bristle portion, fluid channel, and at least one aperture in the bristle portion of the brush head portion.
US09226806B2 Occlusion estimation in dental prosthesis design
Herein are provided methods, systems, computer-readable media, techniques and processes for occlusion estimation in dental prosthesis design. These include determining a first contact point between antagonist teeth, then simulating motion in order to determine additional contact points. Various of the determined contact points may not be used in the simulated motion, based on the simulated physics. When one or more predetermined stopping criteria have been met, then the contact points may be used to define the relative occlusal positions of antagonists. In some embodiments, sets of teeth in a bridge or crown, e.g., may be simulated as moving separately and a new state for each set of teeth may be determined.
US09226805B2 Multi-position abutment with angular ball attachment for dental implants
The present invention relates to an abutment for securing a dental prosthesis to a dental implant. The multi-member abutment corrects for angular misalignment between the dental prosthesis and implant by way of thirty or greater discrete orientations about a central vertical axis and, an external ball that protrudes from the upper surface of the abutment to externally constrain the prosthesis from the side. Exchangeable members are available for variability in height and offset angle beyond a specified range.
US09226803B2 Orthodontic appliance systems
Orthodontic appliance systems including self-ligating orthodontic brackets and/or orthodontic brackets that include a prescription-altering insert that is configured to be removably coupled to the bracket. The prescriptive insert may be optional in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the prescriptive insert may define and/or alter the prescription of the bracket, such as a prescription defined by the bracket when the insert is not utilized. A plurality of prescriptive inserts may be provided, with each insert defining a unique orthodontic prescription when coupled to the bracket. In some embodiments, the bracket is a self-ligating bracket that includes a base and a repositionable closure for selectively obstructing an opening in an archwire passage of the bracket. In some embodiments, the closure defines more than one side, or wall, of the archwire passage and/or is pivotally coupled to the base by a floating hinge or other displaceable positioning mechanism.
US09226802B2 Polymeric instrument for cleaning canals in endodontic procedures
An instrument for cleaning canals during endodontic procedures is presented. The instrument is formed in one piece from a stiff polymeric material. The instrument features a handle, a measuring shaft, and a tapering shank with raised polymeric projections along its length. The present invention is designed without the use of bristles that conventional brushes contain. The raised polymeric projections include fins that may be oriented parallel to or transverse to the axis of the instrument to provide multidirectional cleaning capability. The instrument is stiff enough to penetrate a canal and mechanically scrub and scrape canal surfaces, but flexible enough to negotiate the curves of the canal.
US09226795B2 Robot structure
A robot structure, in particular for minimally invasive surgery, is provided with a first robot element and a second robot element that can be moved relative to the first robot element, said second robot element having two grasping and/or cutting elements which can be uniformly moved with respect to each other and which are connected to the first robot element via a hinge axis. The robot structure further has a force transmitting device for moving the grasping and/or cutting elements of the movable robot element and at least one sensor element comprising a sensitive end for receiving forces and/or torques that occur on the movable robot element and includes a base element that is fixed to the first robot element.
US09226794B2 Steerable laser probe
A steerable laser probe may include a handle having a handle distal end and a handle proximal end, an actuation control of the handle, a housing tube having a housing tube distal end and a housing tube proximal end, a first housing tube portion having a first stiffness, a second housing tube portion having a second stiffness, an optic fiber disposed within an inner portion of the handle and the housing tube, and a cable disposed within the housing tube and the actuation control. A rotation of the actuation control may be configured to gradually curve the housing tube and the optic fiber. A rotation of the actuation control may be configured to gradually straighten the housing tube and the optic fiber.
US09226785B2 Locking bone screws and methods of use thereof
The invention encompasses a bone screw for use in the human body including a shaft having a threaded region along at least a portion of its length and a screw head including a locking mechanism to secure the screw, for example to a bone plate. In certain embodiments, the thread has an outer diameter dimensioned to pass through the screw hole in the implant. The screw head is configured to cooperatively engage at least a portion of the screw hole of the implant so as to prevent the screw from coming out of the implant and avoided soft tissue damage and other complications associated with unintended screw removal.
US09226783B2 Ankle arthrodesis nail and outrigger assembly
An intramedullary fixation device having a distal section; a proximal section; a connecting member for adjustably securing the distal and proximal sections end to end along a longitudinal axis; means for securing the proximal section to a first bone; and means for securing the distal section to a least one different bone. The connecting member is rotated to provide compression across a bone arthrodesis site to be stabilized and fused. Also described is a method of utilizing the intramedullary fixation device with an outrigger assembly.
US09226781B2 Implantation tools for interspinous process spacing device
Various embodiments described herein provide interspinous process spacing devices and related systems and methods. In one embodiment, surgical instrument system for implanting an interspinous process spacing device includes a first arm having a proximal end, an elongated central portion, and a distal end, wherein the distal end includes a first engagement element configured for releasably engaging a first attachment side of an interspinous process spacing device. The system also includes a second arm having a proximal end, an elongated central portion, and a distal end, wherein the distal end includes a second engagement element configured for releasably engaging a second attachment side of the interspinous process spacing device. The first arm and the second arm are removably attachable to one another via attachment elements and are configured for aligning a spacer of the first attachment side and a spacer opening of the second attachment side.
US09226779B2 Pedicle screw assembly and dynamic spinal stabilization devices incorporating the pedicle screw assembly
A dynamic spinal stabilization device for the treatment of high-grade spinal disorders is disclosed herein. The dynamic spinal stabilization device includes two or more screw assemblies, each of which include a pedicle screw and a head socket containing a curved internal track that limits the range of motion and center of rotation of the spinal segments stabilized using the device to the physiological levels of a nondegraded spinal segment.
US09226775B2 Locking bone screw and spinal plate system
A bone plate system including a bone plate and a bone screw with an integrated locking mechanism is disclosed. The bone screw includes an elongate member having a threaded shank and a bone screw head that is radially deformable. The integrated locking mechanism sits within the bone screw head and can rotate between a locked condition and an unlocked condition. When the bone screw head is seated within an aperture in the bone plate, rotating the integrated locking mechanism into the locked condition helps to prevent bone screw backout.
US09226774B2 Visual obturator with tip openings
The present disclosure relates to an optical obturator that facilitates the visualization of tissue therethrough during use. The optical obturator disclosed herein includes a housing that is disposed at a proximal end thereof, an elongate member that extends distally from the housing, a distal end formed of a substantially opaque material with one or more openings formed therein, and a shield member.
US09226770B2 Optical penetrating adapter for surgical portal
An optical penetrating adapter for mounting to a surgical portal to permit visualization through the surgical portal includes an adapter member defining a longitudinal axis and having a transparent window adapted to penetrate tissue and to permit visualization therethrough and means for coupling the adapter member to the surgical portal. The transparent window may have various shapes and configurations adapted to penetrate, dissect, resect or separate tissue in a non traumatic manner. Alternatively, the transparent window may incorporate structure such as cutting edges blades, points, etc to pierce, cut or incise tissue.
US09226764B2 Conformable soft tissue removal instruments
Surgical curettes or rakes with cutting edges conform or deflect to allow for contouring that follows the bony anatomy. The cutting tips can be pre-sterile, disposable and made from flexible materials including metals and polymers. The disposable tips ensure that a sharp cutting edge is exposed to the endplate for each procedure. The tips can also be adjusted to change the size of the cutting surface and window for retaining shaved disc material. The tips can pivot to provide for a self adjusting angle that allows the cutting edge to have full contact with the endplate at various angles like the pivot on a disposable razor blade.
US09226761B2 End effector with redundant closing mechanisms
End effectors with redundant closing mechanisms, and related tools and methods are disclosed. The disclosed end effectors may be particularly beneficial when used for minimally invasive surgery. An example surgical tool comprises an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, a tool body disposed at the distal end of the shaft, a jaw movable relative to the tool body between a clamped configuration and an open configuration, a first actuation mechanism coupled with the jaw and operable to vary the position of the jaw relative to the tool body between the clamped configuration and the open configuration, and a second actuation mechanism coupled with the jaw. The second actuation mechanism has a first configuration where the jaw is held in the clamped configuration and a second configuration where the position of the jaw relative to the tool body is unconstrained by the second actuation mechanism.
US09226759B2 Low profile reamers and methods of use
Low profile reamers and methods of use are provided which can, in general, allow a hole to be drilled in bone. In one embodiment, a low profile retractable bone reamer is provided having an elongate shaft with a cutting element disposed on a distal end of the elongate shaft that can be configured to drill a hole in bone. The elongate shaft and cutting element can have first and second longitudinally separated portions that are movably coupled to each other. The reamer can be configured to move between a retracted configuration, in which a the reamer has a reduced, low profile configuration, and a non-retracted configuration, in which both longitudinally separated portions of the cutting element can be positioned adjacent to one another to form a single cutting element.
US09226757B2 Bone removal instrument
Improved spinal instruments are provided. In particular, the present application relates to an improved rongeur that allows for multiple bites of bone to be performed in a patient before removing the rongeur from the patient. The rongeur includes a lower shaft and an upper shaft slidable relative to the lower shaft. The lower shaft and upper shaft form a jaw mechanism that can take multiple bites of bone, which can be deposited in a storage cavity formed in the upper shaft. To assist in removing the bone from within the storage cavity, an internal plunger mechanism can be provided that is actuated by a finger hold. In addition, at least portions of the upper shaft are detachable from the lower shaft such that the upper shaft can be thoroughly cleaned and re-used if desired.
US09226752B2 Surgical fastener-applying apparatuses with sequential firing
A surgical fastening instrument is provided. The surgical fastening instrument includes a handle portion and an elongate portion extending distally from the handle portion and defining a longitudinal axis along a length thereof. The surgical fastening instrument also includes an end effector assembly that includes an anvil and a cartridge supported adjacent a distal end of the elongate portion. Each of the anvil and the cartridge includes a tissue contacting surface oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. One or more independently movable pushers is configured to support one or more surgical fasteners. A thrust bar is operatively coupled to the elongate portion, wherein the thrust bar is movable over a predetermined stroke to effect sequential ejection of at least two surgical fasteners of the plurality of surgical fasteners from the cartridge.
US09226747B2 Medical implement for manipulating sutures particularly useful in arthroscopic surgery
A medical implement particularly useful in arthroscopic sutures, includes: a handle having a proximal end configured for manual gripping by a user, a distal end, an internal passageway extending between the proximal end and the distal end, and an intermediate portion formed with a recess extending from the outer surface to the internal passageway. A shuttle is movable through the passageway and has an intermediate portion exposed within the recess for manipulation by a user gripping the handle, and a suture-receiving-element at its distal movable axially through the distal end of the handle. A roller is rotatably mounted to the handle to underlie the exposed portion of the shuttle such that, after a suture has been received by the suture-receiving-element of the shuttle, a user, gripping the handle, may manipulate the shuttle with respect to the distal end of the handle by thumb-pressing the exposed portion of the shuttle against the roller and rotating the roller.
US09226745B2 Method and apparatus for guiding a suture thread
A suture device is configured to guide a suture thread. The device includes a sleeve that defines an opening, and a plunger to which a suture thread can be attached. The plunger can be inserted into the opening of the sleeve, and movable between a retracted position and an advanced position. When the plunger is in the retracted position, a distal portion of the suture thread is located proximal with respect to the distal end of the suture device. When the plunger is in the advanced position, the distal portion of the suture thread is driven out the distal end of the suture device.